The NBA resumes after the All-Star break with an important Eastern Conference matchup as the Toronto Raptors visit the Chicago Bulls on February 19, 2026, at the United Center. This game is crucial for both teams but for very different reasons. Toronto are pushing to strengthen their playoff position and even aim for home-court advantage, while Chicago are struggling to stay in the play-in race after a poor run of form.
The Raptors have quietly built strong momentum this season and already have more wins than their entire previous campaign. On the other hand, the Bulls are dealing with defensive issues and a losing streak, although the possible return of key playmakers could make them more competitive. With players like Scottie Barnes, Brandon Ingram, Immanuel Quickley, and Josh Giddey expected to play major roles, this matchup could be closer than the standings suggest.
Match Details
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | Toronto Raptors vs Chicago Bulls |
| Date | February 19, 2026 |
| Time | 8:00 PM ET (6:30 AM IST, Feb 20) |
| Venue | United Center, Chicago |
| Broadcast | CHSN, SportsNet / NBA League Pass |
Current Standings & Team Form
| Team | Record | Conference Rank | Recent Form |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toronto Raptors | 32-23 | 5th (East) | 6-4 last 10 |
| Chicago Bulls | 24-31 | 11th (East) | Lost last 6 |
Toronto are firmly in the playoff race and have been strong on the road (16-10). Chicago, meanwhile, have struggled defensively and are trying to end a home losing streak.
Head-to-Head (H2H)
| Date | Result |
|---|---|
| Feb 5, 2026 | Raptors 123-107 Bulls |
Toronto lead the season series 1-0 and dominated the previous meeting. However, the Bulls may look improved if key players return.
Injury Report
Chicago Bulls
- Josh Giddey – Probable (hamstring)
- Tre Jones – Probable (hamstring)
- Jalen Smith – Day-to-day (calf)
- Zach Collins – Out
- Noa Essengue – Out (season)
Toronto Raptors
- Sandro Mamukelashvili – Questionable (ribs)
- Collin Murray-Boyles – Probable (thumb)
- Chucky Hepburn – Out (G League)
Chicago could receive a big boost if Giddey and Jones return, improving their ball movement and playmaking.
Key Team Statistics
| Stat | Raptors | Bulls |
|---|---|---|
| Points per game | 113.8 | 116.8 |
| Points allowed | 112.3 | 120.6 |
| Assists | 29.3 (Top 3) | 29.2 |
| Rebounds | 43.0 | 44.7 |
The Bulls score well but struggle defensively, while Toronto rely on balanced offense and solid team play.
Players to Watch
Toronto Raptors
- Brandon Ingram: 21.8 PPG, main scoring option
- Scottie Barnes: 19.3 PPG, 8.4 RPG, all-around impact
- RJ Barrett: Key secondary scorer and playmaker
- Immanuel Quickley: 17 PPG, hot three-point shooting (47.5% over last five games)
Chicago Bulls
- Josh Giddey: 18.6 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 8.8 APG – triple-double threat
- Matas Buzelis: 15+ PPG rookie contributor
- Anfernee Simons: Perimeter scoring option
- Collin Sexton: Aggressive guard scoring
Betting Odds & Lines
| Market | Odds |
|---|---|
| Spread | Raptors -5.5 to -6.5 |
| Moneyline | Raptors around -210 to -245 |
| Over/Under | 233.5 – 234 |
Toronto are clear favorites, but models suggest the game could be close.
Also see: Stephen Curry Injury Update: Warriors Star Ruled Out vs Celtics with Knee Issue
Recent Trends
- Raptors: 27 wins against the spread this season
- Bulls: 1-9 in last 10 games
- Bulls defense ranks near the bottom (120+ points allowed)
- Chicago have covered only 18 of last 50 games
- Raptors games average 225 points in last 10 (below total)
Best Picks & Predictions
Score Prediction: Raptors 117 – Bulls 115
Expert Picks:
- Lean: Bulls +6.5 (close game expected)
- Total: Under 233.5
- Player Props:
- Immanuel Quickley Over 2.5 three-pointers
- RJ Barrett Over 3.5 assists
- Scottie Barnes Over 7.5 rebounds
- Brandon Ingram 20+ points
Toronto’s ball movement and shooting should create problems for Chicago’s weak perimeter defense.
Also see: Joel Embiid Injury Update: 76ers Star Ruled Out vs Hawks
Final Prediction
The Raptors enter this game in better form, with stronger defense, better team chemistry, and clear playoff motivation. Chicago’s recent struggles and defensive issues make them underdogs, but the possible return of Josh Giddey and Tre Jones could help them stay competitive at home.
Expect a high-effort game after the All-Star break, but Toronto’s balanced lineup and momentum give them the edge.
Final Pick: Raptors to win, but Bulls likely keep the margin close.
