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The Chicago Bulls will have revenge on their minds when they face the Boston Celtics on Tuesday night, marking their first of four NBA Cup group-stage games this season. Earlier this week, the Celtics handed the Bulls a decisive defeat at TD Garden, overwhelming Chicago on the boards and from beyond the arc. The young Bulls appeared overmatched in that contest, but they responded with a more competitive effort against the New York Knicks, which could provide a confidence boost for the rematch.
For Chicago to pull off the upset, three keys stand out:
1. Protect the Basketball
Turnovers plagued the Bulls in the previous meeting, as they coughed up the ball 24 times, leading to 39 points for Boston. While Chicago also forced 24 turnovers, they failed to capitalize on those opportunities. Boston's ability to convert Chicago's mistakes into easy points was the difference. Reducing turnovers should keep the game closer.
2. Control the Glass
Rebounding has been a point of emphasis for head coach Tiago Splitter since training camp, but the Bulls were out-rebounded by 14 in the last game. The Celtics grabbed 19 offensive rebounds, resulting in 16 second-chance points. It wasn't just one player dominating; everyone in green crashed the boards effectively. Chicago must box out and bring more physicality around the rim.
3. Contain Peyton Pritchard
Reserve guard Peyton Pritchard torched the Bulls' second unit for 28 points off the bench, shooting 7-of-10 from three-point range. His performance was a major reason Boston pulled away. The Bulls need a balanced effort and must avoid losing ground when their stars are off the floor. Limiting Pritchard's impact is crucial.
Game Details
Who: Chicago Bulls (1-4) at Boston Celtics (3-1)
Where: TD Garden
When: 6:30 PM CT
Watch: Chicago Sports Network
Listen: 104.3 FM The Score
Projected Starting Lineups
Chicago Bulls:
1. Josh Giddey
2. Norman Powell
3. Matas Buzelis
4. Caleb Wilson
5. Jalen Smith
Boston Celtics:
1. Derrick White
2. Jordan Walsh
3. Paul George
4. Jayson Tatum
5. Mitchell Robinson
Injury Report
Chicago Bulls:
Jalen Smith - AVAILABLE (finger)
Patrick Williams - AVAILABLE (adductor)
Tobe Awaka - QUESTIONABLE (ankle)
Dailyn Swain - OUT (back)
Nic Claxton - OUT (hamstring)
Devin Carter - OUT (illness)
Boston Celtics:
No injuries reported.