Toronto Raptors vs Chicago Bulls 21 October 2026 Prediction

Toronto and Chicago open their 2026-27 regular seasons with different expectations. The Raptors are aiming for a top-five finish in the Eastern Conference, while reaching the play-in tournament would be a good result for the Bulls. Toronto won all three meetings between the teams in 2026.

Kawhi Leonard Returns to Toronto

Leonard is back with the Raptors, whom he helped win the 2018-19 championship. He averaged a career-high 27.9 points per game last regular season. With Scottie Barnes and RJ Barrett alongside him, Toronto has a strong core.

The Raptors went 2-3 in the preseason, but their last three games included a 148-98 win over the defending champion Knicks, a 122-120 loss to New York and a 129-125 loss to Detroit. The starters played limited minutes, while the reserves performed well.

Toronto Predicted Lineup: Quickley – Barrett, Leonard – Barnes, Poeltl

Out: None listed

Manager: Darko Rajaković

Chicago Faces Questions Entering the Season

Chicago has not signed a star in recent seasons and made the playoffs only once in six years under former manager Billy Donovan. The roster now includes summer additions Powell and Hield, with Giddey still running the offense and Tiago Splitter taking over as manager. It remains to be seen how well the group fits together.

The Bulls have favored a fast pace and an offense-first approach for several seasons. They won three of five preseason games, though their schedule was relatively light apart from a 133-128 loss to Denver. Defense and roster depth remain concerns.

Chicago Predicted Lineup: Giddey – Powell, Buzelis – Wilson, Smith

Out: Claxton (injury)

Manager: Tiago Splitter

Toronto Won All Three Meetings Last Season

The Raptors won all three games against the Bulls in the previous regular season.

Toronto vs Chicago Prediction: Toronto Handicap -9.5

Main prediction: Toronto has the stronger roster, and Leonard gives the Raptors another scoring option. Chicago's defense and limited depth could make it difficult to keep pace. The Raptors also won all three meetings last regular season. The pick is Toronto -9.5 at 1.90.

Totals prediction: Chicago plays quickly and allows plenty of scoring opportunities. The Bulls ranked among the bottom three in defensive rating last season and gave up 121.5 points per game. Two of the teams' three meetings reached at least 230 total points. The pick is Over 235.5 at 1.91.