The Chicago Bulls, carrying a 17-18 record, arrive in Boston tonight facing a formidable challenge against the consistent Celtics at TD Garden. This comes after the Bulls stumbled against the Charlotte Hornets with a 112-99 loss, a game that highlighted their ongoing struggle to find stability amidst a persistent injury crisis.
Injury Woes Deepen for Bulls, Tatum Still Out for Celtics
The Bulls' roster continues to be decimated by injuries, putting them at a significant disadvantage. Josh Giddey is ruled out with a left hamstring strain, a major blow given his impressive averages of 19 points, 8 rebounds, and 9 assists. The frontcourt is also severely short-handed with Zach Collins (right toe sprain), Jalen Smith (concussion), and Trentyn Flowers (right knee sprain) all sidelined.
Further, Noa Essengue remains out following left shoulder surgery, and Emanuel Miller is on a G League assignment. The biggest question mark is Coby White, listed as questionable due to right calf injury management. If White cannot play, the offensive burden will fall heavily on Ayo Dosunmu, who is shooting 43% from three-point range, and center Nikola Vucevic, averaging 16 points and 8 rebounds.
For the Boston Celtics, who sit comfortably at 22-12 and are on a three-game winning streak, star forward Jayson Tatum remains out as he recovers from right Achilles repair surgery. However, the Celtics have bolstered their rotation with the return of Ron Harper Jr., Max Shulga, and Amari Williams from the G League. The team will continue to rely on Jaylen Brown as the primary scorer, fresh off a 30-point, 6-rebound, 5-assist performance, with Derrick White providing steady two-way play.
Game Outlook, Key Matchups, and Betting Predictions
The Celtics are heavy favorites, entering the game with an 11.5-point spread and a moneyline of around -550. Their strength lies in balanced scoring, depth, and a strong home-court record at TD Garden. The Bulls' chances hinge on their perimeter shooting and frontcourt performance. The matchup between Nikola Vucevic and Celtics' big man Neemias Queta will be crucial for second-chance points.
Projections give the Boston Celtics a 71% chance to win this matchup, with an expected final score of 123-111. Interestingly, simulations suggest the Chicago Bulls cover the +11.5 point spread in approximately 56% of scenarios. Key player props to watch include Jaylen Brown's points total, set at over/under 30.5.
How and Where to Watch Bulls vs Celtics
For fans eager to catch the action, tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET on Monday, January 5, 2026, at the TD Garden in Boston. The game will be broadcast locally on NBC Sports Boston and the Chicago Sports Network. National and international fans can stream the game via Fubo or NBA League Pass.
Radio listeners can tune in to 98.5 The Sports Hub in Boston or 670 The Score in Chicago. For those looking to attend, tickets are still available with upper-level seats starting around $78.
