The Celtics roll into Chicago looking to extend a winning rhythm, but the Bulls are in a groove as well. Boston had to dig deep last night, and they’ll have to again on the second half of a back-to-back. Fatigue may be a factor, but the Celtics have a key contributor returning. Here are three questions that could decide the outcome.
Can the Celtics survive a short turnaround against the Bulls?
Boston was put to the test all night by Brooklyn, and had just enough left in the tank to pull off a gutsy win. After a double-overtime finish and a late-night flight to Chicago, the Celtics haven’t had much time to recharge ahead of tonight’s matchup with the Bulls.
Chicago, meanwhile, enters well-rested and riding a three-game winning streak. They most recently handled Minnesota behind a balanced effort that saw seven players reach double figures.
Brooklyn’s size and switchability posed problems for Boston, but Chicago presents a different challenge. The Bulls lack the same positional versatility, which should allow the Celtics to generate and punish switches more easily. The concern lies on the other end.
Chicago plays fast. They rank fourth in pace and average the second-most transition possessions per game — a recipe that could expose tired legs if this game stays close late.
This puts a premium on execution. If Boston can control turnovers and get into its half-court offense, they’ll limit Chicago’s ability to run, and force the Bulls to score against a set defense.
The good news? Derrick White is back.
Can Derrick White’s return slow down the Bulls’ fast break?
The weather is unusually cold — and so is Derrick White’s jumper lately.
After a slow start to the season, White found his rhythm, before slipping back into another brief efficiency dip. It’s a familiar pattern, and one that prompted Joe Mazzulla to give him the night off against Brooklyn.
His return against Chicago comes at an ideal moment. White’s defensive versatility and off-ball activity could be critical against a Bulls team that thrives in transition, particularly when it comes to slowing his namesake, Coby White. With extra rest, he may also be better positioned to shoulder a larger load if others begin to fade.
There’s no long-term concern with one of the league’s most reliable shooters. If anything, this feels like a natural spot for a course correction.
Will Amari Williams get more minutes after his strong performance?
Amari Williams had arguably the most encouraging five-minute stint one could imagine against the Nets.
With Neemias Queta and Luka Garza fouled out, it was Amari Williams who stepped up with the game on the line. His size and defensive impact were huge, but more importantly, he looked like he belonged.
Getting thrown into the fire of double overtime is a big ask for a rookie two-way center. He handled it extremely well, and effectively iced the game with some excellent rim protection.
Mazzulla has consistently rewarded young players who impact games, and Williams may have earned himself a longer look. While his development is primarily happening in Maine, there’s value in giving him NBA reps — something he’s handled well each time so far.
With Queta still dealing with illness and listed as probable, tonight presents another opportunity. Like White, Williams could help Boston manage the physical toll of a short turnaround.
