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Magic vs. Bulls prediction: Why Orlando is favored to win Friday's NBA matchup [1/2/2026]
Updated: | First published:
Written by Ryan Leaver, Senior Sports and Betting Editor
Get Orlando Magic vs Chicago Bulls predictions for NBA Friday.
The Chicago Bulls and Orlando Magic are scheduled to meet in NBA action at United Center on Friday, starting at 8:00 PM ET.
Based on updated simulation results and today’s injury updates, Dimers' proven NBA model predicts the Magic as the most likely winner of the Magic vs. Bulls game.
This prediction follows the latest NBA Injury Report, which suggests the Bulls lineup will feature players like Nikola Vucevic, Matas Buzelis and Tre Jones, while the Magic will look to Paolo Banchero, Desmond Bane and Anthony Black.
This article offers further insights into Friday's matchup, including an expanded look at the predicted score, best bets and player prop picks.
Magic vs. Bulls prediction: Who will win and cover?
Using powerful machine learning and data, we have simulated the result of Friday's NBA game between the Magic and Bulls 10,000 times as part of our NBA predictions coverage.
Our leading predictive model currently gives the Magic a 68% chance of defeating the Bulls. Our predicted final score has the Magic winning 119-113.
According to our model, the Magic (-5.5) have a 51% chance of covering the spread, while the over/under total of 233.5 points has a 51% chance of staying under.
Magic vs. Bulls odds
We have sourced the best NBA odds in America for this game, which are listed here:
| Bet Type | Magic | Bulls |
|---|---|---|
| Spread | -5.5 (-105) | +5.5 (-112) |
| Moneyline | -198 | +170 |
| Total | o233.5 (-108) | u233.5 (-110) |
All odds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.
Magic vs. Bulls picks and best bet
After matching our predictions against the best available odds, we can reveal our picks for each of the major markets. Plus, find our best bet for the game below:
| Bet Type | Pick | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Magic -5.5 | -105 |
| Moneyline | Magic | -198 |
| Total | Under 233.5 | -110 |
According to our NBA best bets, the top play to make on this game is Magic to win.
Magic vs. Bulls player props
Looking for Orlando vs. Chicago NBA prop bets? We use the best information available to project how each team's leading players will perform at United Center.
Paolo Banchero is expected to lead the Magic with 25 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists, while Nikola Vucevic is projected to have 17 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists for the Bulls.
Check out our NBA player projections for a full range of projected box scores, including points, assists, rebounds and today's NBA first basket picks.
Magic prediction
Our model's projected player stats for the Magic are:
| Player | PTS | REB | AST | 3PM | DFS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paolo Banchero | 25 | 8 | 5 | 1 | 49 |
| Desmond Bane | 20 | 5 | 5 | 2 | 38 |
| Anthony Black | 17 | 4 | 4 | 2 | 33 |
| Jalen Suggs | 15 | 3 | 4 | 2 | 32 |
| Wendell Carter | 13 | 8 | 2 | 1 | 30 |
Bulls prediction
Projected points, rebounds, assists and three-pointers made for the Bulls:
| Player | PTS | REB | AST | 3PM | DFS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nikola Vucevic | 17 | 9 | 4 | 2 | 38 |
| Matas Buzelis | 16 | 5 | 2 | 2 | 31 |
| Tre Jones | 14 | 3 | 7 | 1 | 33 |
| Ayo Dosunmu | 13 | 3 | 4 | 1 | 27 |
| Kevin Huerter | 13 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 27 |
Magic vs. Bulls game-day updates and essential details
Friday's matchup between the Bulls and Magic at United Center is scheduled to begin at 8:00 PM ET.
- Who: Orlando Magic vs. Chicago Bulls
- Date: Friday, January 2, 2026
- Time: 8:00 PM ET/5:00PM PT
- Venue: United Center
Conclusion
We predict the Magic, with a 68% win probability, will likely beat the Bulls on Friday, with Paolo Banchero projected for a game-high 49 fantasy points.
AI and automation have enhanced this article to quickly deliver accurate Magic vs. Bulls insights, with human oversight ensuring high editorial quality. Our predictions are based on the latest data to help you make informed decisions. For additional resources and advice on responsible gambling, please call 1-800-GAMBLER.
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Ryan Leaver uses advanced statistical models and simulations to predict outcomes and provide predictions for the NBA, NFL, college football, college basketball, and soccer. He offers detailed game previews, best bets, props, and futures articles.
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