Chicago Bulls vs Dallas Mavericks Picks and Predictions for Sunday April 12, 2026

By: Kim Smith Published 04/12/2026, 01:50 AM ET

The Chicago Bulls travel to face the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas on Sunday, April 12, 2026, with tip-off scheduled for 8:30 PM ET. The game will be broadcast on CHSN, KFAA-TV, and Mavs.com. According to DraftKings, Chicago is listed as a +6.5 underdog with a +225 moneyline, while Dallas is favored at -6.5 with a -278 moneyline. The total for this matchup is set at 245.5. This interconference matchup brings together two teams looking to end recent struggles, and it sets up as a game where offensive production could play a major role. Be sure to check out free NBA picks for more daily insights.

Chicago Looks to Regain Rhythm After Mixed Results

Chicago enters this game with a 31-50 overall record and a 13-27 mark on the road. Over their last five games, the Bulls have gone 2-3, recently defeating Washington twice while losing to Orlando, Phoenix, and New York. This stretch reflects a team that has shown flashes of offensive production but has struggled to maintain consistency, particularly against stronger opponents.

From a statistical standpoint, Chicago is averaging 116.2 points per game while allowing 121.2 points per contest. They are shooting 47% from the field and collecting 45.1 rebounds per game. The Bulls also average 28.5 assists, along with 5.0 blocks and 7.6 steals. These numbers highlight a team that can score at a solid rate and move the ball effectively, but one that has had difficulty limiting opponents.

The biggest weakness for Chicago is its defense. Allowing 121.2 points per game puts them in difficult situations, especially in high-paced matchups. Even when their offense performs well, the inability to consistently get stops has often prevented them from securing wins.

Subscribe Now

I authorize Picks And Parlays to send me promotional emails

I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time. I have read and accepted the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. I consent that Picks And Parlays may use third-party services to process my data.

Terms & Conditions

Dallas Aims to Halt a Losing Slide at Home

Dallas comes into this matchup with a 25-56 record and a 15-25 mark at home. Over their last five games, the Mavericks have gone 1-4, recently losing to San Antonio, Phoenix, and the Clippers, while also falling to Orlando and picking up a lone win against the Lakers. This stretch highlights a team that has struggled to find rhythm and consistency in recent outings.

Looking at the numbers, Dallas is averaging 113.7 points per game while allowing 119.5. They are shooting 47% from the field and grabbing 44.6 rebounds per contest. The Mavericks also average 25.1 assists, along with 5.2 blocks and 7.5 steals. These stats show a team that has some offensive capability but has struggled to keep opponents in check defensively.

Dallas’s primary weakness mirrors that of Chicago, as they are allowing 119.5 points per game. This defensive challenge has made it difficult for them to close out games, especially when facing teams that can generate consistent scoring opportunities.

Chicago Bulls vs Dallas Mavericks Picks and Prediction

Chicago Bulls vs Dallas Mavericks Pick

Pick: Dallas Mavericks -6.5

Dallas appears to have a slight edge in this matchup despite their recent struggles. While both teams have defensive issues, the Mavericks are playing at home and have shown the ability to score enough to stay competitive. Chicago’s tendency to allow over 121 points per game creates an opportunity for Dallas to take advantage offensively. The home-court factor combined with Chicago’s defensive struggles makes Dallas the more appealing side to cover the spread.

Chicago Bulls vs Dallas Mavericks Total Pick

Pick: Over 245.5

I’m going with the over in this matchup. Both teams allow a high number of points, with Chicago giving up 121.2 per game and Dallas allowing 119.5. At the same time, both offenses are capable of contributing, with Chicago averaging 116.2 points per game and Dallas at 113.7. With both defenses struggling and both offenses capable of producing, this game sets up well for a high-scoring outcome.

Final Score Prediction: Dallas Mavericks 125 – Chicago Bulls 120