Celtics’ Big Win Over Bulls: 4 Key Takeaways!

In Chicago, the Celtics encountered some adversity in the second quarter but swiftly recovered to secure a commanding 129-112 victory over the Bulls at the United Center in their first post-All-Star break game. Boston extended its league-leading record to 44-12, while the Bulls slipped to 26-30.

From the outset, the Celtics showcased their defensive prowess, amassing steals and blocks in an impressive defensive display. Despite building a 16-point lead early on, the Bulls mounted a comeback in the second quarter, scoring 39 points and turning the Celtics’ lead into a halftime deficit.

Although third quarters have been a challenge for the Celtics at times, they responded emphatically on Thursday, outscoring the Bulls 37-21. They dominated from beyond the arc while maintaining defensive pressure, effectively preventing the Bulls from staging a comeback. The Celtics maintained control throughout the game, with their lead peaking at 21 points.

Derrick White stood out with 28 points and three blocks, leading the Celtics’ charge, while Jayson Tatum contributed 25 points and seven rebounds, and Jaylen Brown added 21 points. Nikola Vucevic recorded 22 points and 14 rebounds for the Bulls.

Next, the Celtics will face the Knicks at 8:30 p.m. on Saturday at Madison Square Garden. Here are four key takeaways from Boston’s victory over Chicago:

1. Momentary setback: Despite a strong defensive start in the first quarter, the Celtics faced adversity in the second as the Bulls capitalized on attacking the paint, resulting in a 39-point quarter. However, the Celtics responded well, tightening their defense in the second half and ultimately cruising to victory after overcoming early challenges.

2. Efficient shooting: The Celtics’ proficiency from beyond the arc was on full display, with the team converting 23 of 47 attempts (48.9%). They capitalized on their strong start, hitting 20 of 36 attempts in the early stages, contributing significantly to their substantial lead.

3. Derrick White’s versatility: White showcased his defensive prowess once again, including an impressive block on Nikola Vucevic. Additionally, his confident shooting from beyond the arc proved valuable, further establishing him as a key contributor for the Celtics.

4. Debut appearances: Xavier Tillman and Jaden Springer, recently acquired by the Celtics, made their debut appearances for the team. Although they saw limited playing time in Thursday’s blowout victory, their presence on the court provided a glimpse of their potential impact in future games.