Chicago Bulls vs. Boston Celtics: TV Schedule, Live Stream, Spread Info and More
The Chicago Bulls take a banged up squad into TD Garden to take on the Boston Celtics in an epic clash of Eastern powers.
The Bulls have been rolling this season, even with their reigning MVP Derrick Rose hampered with a toe injury. SI.com reports Rose will be ready for Friday, meaning the Celtics' woes may have to continue a little while longer.
Boston's big four are looking like the big elderly right about now. This is a perfect opportunity for the Celtics to prove they are still a force in the conference.
Let's delve deeper into the game of the night.
Where: TD Garden, Boston, MA
When: Friday, January 13th, 8:00 p.m. ET
Watch: ESPN/NBA League Pass Streaming (Fees Apply)
Betting Line: according to Bovada.lv Chicago Bulls -2.5
Key Injuries: According to ESPN Injury Report:
Chicago Bulls: Richard Hamilton (Day-to-Day), close to returning from groin injury; Joakim Noah (Day-to-Day), injured thumb but X-Rays negative;
Boston Celtics: Keyon Dooling (Questionable), knee kept him from Thursday's practice;
What's At Stake?: Don't ever think it is too early to send a statement. The Boston Celtics have been feeling their years lately and a win against Chicago would be an enormous boost for morale.
For the Bulls, they are about to see how that toe of Rose is doing. This game might be in January, but it has huge implications for momentum.
What They're Saying:
KC Johnson reports for the Chicago Tribune on Derrick Rose making his way back to the court Friday:
""Rose, who missed Wednesday's game after spraining his left big toe on Tuesday in Minnesota, took part in passing and shooting drills. He wore a walking boot afterward, which coach Tom Thibodeau called precautionary."
"
The Boston Herald's Steve Bulpett writes:
""His team is 4-5. His team plays the club with the best record in the Eastern Conference tonight. There is a tough road game tomorrow in Indiana and a return to face the club with the best record in the Western Conference Monday. So as Doc Rivers smiled yesterday and put up a “No Diving” sign on the Tobin Bridge, he sounded rather like Kevin Bacon in Animal House. 'Remain calm. All is well.'"
"
Bulls Player to Watch: The Bulls proved they can win without Derrick Rose, but more menacing foes are afoot. The MVP has to be healthy if Chicago is going to take home a title this year. We are about to see what one night's rest can garner that ailing toe.
Celtics Player to Watch: The Celtics are mired in offensive consistency. Their young stud Rajon Rondo has to be the guy from here on out. That production must start with him. Aside from that, he has the duty of tempering Derrick Rose. No biggie.
Key Matchup: We just touched upon it, but Rose and Rondo will make or break this game. Rose will be out to show that he is still the best point guard in the game. Rondo will have his hands full tonight, as he takes on a hungry guard and carries the Celtics on his back.
Prediction: Chicago Bulls 92, Boston Celtics 87
