1. Context & Stakes

On November 25, 2025, the Chicago Bulls will travel to New Orleans to face the Pelicans at the Smoothie King Center. This game offers an opportunity for both teams to gain momentum in the early stages of the 2025–26 NBA season:

• The Bulls, under coach Billy Donovan, aim to build consistency and push up the Eastern Conference standings.

• The Pelicans are in a turbulent moment: after a rough start, the franchise has made major changes and will look to stabilize under a new interim coach.

2. Head-to-Head History

• Historically, the Bulls lead the series against the Pelicans, with an all-time record of 27–23.

• Chicago owns about 57% winning rate against New Orleans.

• In recent games, Pelicans have won some key matchups; for example, on January 14, 2025, New Orleans edged out Chicago 119–113.

• • The two teams have never met in the NBA Playoffs.

    3. Current Form & Team Situation

    Chicago Bulls

    • For the 2025–26 season, the Bulls are coached by Billy Donovan.

    • They started their season strongly, with a 5–0 run — their best start in years.

    • Key contributors are likely to include Nikola Vucević (inside presence), Zach LaVine (scoring), and Josh Giddey (playmaking).

    New Orleans Pelicans

    • The Pelicans have had a difficult start to the 2025–26 season, beginning with a 2–10 record.

    • The team fired head coach Willie Green and appointed James Borrego as interim coach.

    • Injuries continue to affect the team: Zion Williamson and CJ McCollum have been sidelined at times.

    • Key offseason additions include Jordan Poole, Saddiq Bey, and Kevon Looney, with promising young talent like Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen.

    • Trey Murphy III remains a key X-factor for both offense and defense.

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    4. Projected Lineups & Key Matchups

    Projected Starting Five

    Pelicans (New Orleans)

    • PG: Jordan Poole

    • SG: Jeremiah Fears (or another young guard)

    • SF: Trey Murphy III

    • PF: Zion Williamson

    • C: Kevon Looney

    Bulls (Chicago)

    • PG: Josh Giddey

    • SG: Zach LaVine

    • SF: Ayo Dosunmu or other wing

    • PF: Nikola Vucević

    • C: Vucević may slide; rotation depends on matchup

    Key Matchup Themes

    • Pelicans’ Youth vs. Bulls’ Experience: New Orleans leans on its young core, while Chicago has veteran leadership.

    • Zion’s Impact: When healthy, Williamson dominates inside and drives the Pelicans’ offense.

    • Ball Movement & Playmaking: Poole’s scoring and vision are crucial for New Orleans.

    • Rebounding Battle: Bulls aim to control boards with Vucević; Pelicans rely on Looney and other bigs.

      5. Prediction & Analysis

      • Chicago Bulls are slight favorites due to roster stability, strong start, and experience.

      • New Orleans Pelicans may struggle to finish games due to injuries and recent coaching change but could show flashes of promise from young players.

      • Likely outcome: Bulls win by a moderate margin, with Pelicans highlighting some emerging talent despite the loss.