Overview
- The Celtics open their NBA Cup group at TD Garden against the Chicago Bulls as part of a four-game group stage that determines who moves to the knockout rounds.
- Boston enters the Cup favored after recent home success and Jayson Tatum’s strong return to form, highlighted by a 40-point, eight-assist, five-rebound game.
- Chicago has struggled early in the season, ranking near the bottom in offensive and defensive measures and carrying a losing record into the matchup.
- Rookie Caleb Wilson has emerged as an offensive bright spot for the Bulls while Nic Claxton has not yet debuted and is likely to miss the game, altering Chicago’s interior defense.
- Turnovers are a clear tactical risk for Boston after committing 25 in their earlier blowout of Chicago, and the Cup’s short sample means one sloppy game could cost advancement.