In a testament to their unwavering momentum, the Boston Celtics didn’t let the absence of key players slow them down. They charged to their ninth consecutive victory and maintained their status as the team with the NBA’s best record after dispatching the Chicago Bulls 124-113 during a vibrant Saturday slate.
Jayson Tatum set the tone with 26 points, while Sam Hauser and Al Horford each contributed 23 points, demonstrating the Celtics’ depth and ability to make crucial plays in the final stretches to secure the win.
“We’re just hungry for more,” Hauser declared, emphasizing the team’s relentless drive. “It’s not in our character to just, like, mail it in for the rest of the season.”
With precision from beyond the arc, Hauser sunk 7 of 8 3-point attempts, and Horford added five to Boston’s impressive total of 21 3-pointers. Derrick White and Payton Pritchard also played pivotal roles, scoring 17 and 15 points, respectively. Pritchard disheveled eight assists, and Luke Kornet dominated the boards with 13 rebounds.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics, DeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls Updates
Despite the absence of Jaylen Brown and Kristaps Porzingis due to injuries, the Celtics edged closer to their season-best winning streak, showcasing their resilience and depth while playing their fifth game in seven nights.
The Celtics surged ahead in the early fourth quarter with a nine-point run and maintained their lead, highlighted by key plays from Kornet and Tatum, who made a triumphant return after resting his ailing ankle.
“Different people, different guys, are ready to step up when their number’s called,” Horford shared, underscoring the team’s collective mindset. “We all understand what we’re trying to do, how we’re trying to play. Guys are just staying ready and taking advantage of the opportunities.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics, DeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls Updates
On the Bulls’ side, DeMar DeRozan led with 26 points, but despite a solid team shooting performance, they fell short, overwhelmed by Boston’s second-chance points dominance.
A highlight for the Bulls was Dalen Terry‘s electrifying tip-in dunk in the third quarter, momentarily energizing the Chicago crowd. However, Boston’s relentless offense soon regained the lead, propelled by strategic plays and a critical nine-point burst to kick off the final quarter.
The Celtics’ hot shooting was on full display in the first half, with Tatum, Hauser, and Horford leading a 3-point barrage that set the tone for the game.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics, DeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls Updates
Adding to the Bulls’ narrative, the team welcomed Javonte Green back on a 10-day contract, marking his second stint with Chicago and adding depth to their roster.
Looking ahead, the Celtics are set to visit Atlanta, while the Bulls will host Washington, each team eyeing continued success as the season progresses.
