Chicago Bulls at Boston Celtics Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 12/19/2024 7:30 PM EST

We have your Chicago Bulls at Boston Celtics prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Chicago Bulls hit the road to face the Boston Celtics.

Chicago Bulls at Boston Celtics Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Chicago Bulls +725 (BetMGM) / Boston Celtics -1100 (DraftKings)
Best Spread Odds: -14.5 - Chicago Bulls -110 (BetMGM) / Boston Celtics -110 (BetMGM)
Best Total Odds: 241.0 - Under -110 (bet365) / Over -110 (bet365)

Game Info

Date: 12/19/2024
Time: 7:30 PM EST
Location: TD Garden (Boston, MA)
TV: NBA League Pass

Historic Head-to-Head Stats and Analysis

Over the past two seasons, the Boston Celtics and Chicago Bulls have faced off four times, with the Celtics emerging victorious in all encounters. The games were played between November 2023 and November 2024, with the visiting team winning three out of the four matchups. The Celtics have consistently outperformed the Bulls, covering the spread in three of the four games, while the Bulls managed to cover the spread only once. Notably, all four games went over the projected total points, indicating high-scoring affairs. The Celtics have been the favorite in each matchup, as reflected by their lower moneyline odds compared to the Bulls.

The most recent game between these two teams took place on November 29, 2024, where the Boston Celtics defeated the Chicago Bulls 138-129. The Celtics were led by Jayson Tatum, who scored 35 points, and Payton Pritchard, who added 29 points. Kristaps Porzingis also contributed significantly with 21 points. The Celtics shot 50% from the field and 42.6% from three-point range. On the other hand, the Bulls were led by Nikola Vucevic with 32 points and Zach LaVine with 29 points. The Bulls shot 51.6% overall and 39.2% from beyond the arc. The game was competitive, featuring 17 lead changes and 10 ties, but ultimately, the Celtics secured the win.

In the previous matchups, the Celtics have consistently demonstrated their offensive prowess. For instance, in the game on March 23, 2024, the Celtics scored 124 points, with a field goal percentage of 51.16% and a three-point percentage of 43.75%. Similarly, on February 22, 2024, they scored 129 points with a field goal percentage of 54.22% and a three-point percentage of 48.94%. The Bulls, while competitive, have struggled to match the Celtics' scoring efficiency, as seen in their lower shooting percentages and fewer points scored in each game. The Celtics' ability to maintain high shooting percentages and capitalize on scoring opportunities has been a key factor in their success against the Bulls.

Chicago Bulls at Boston Celtics Preview

The Chicago Bulls are set to face a formidable challenge as they travel to Boston to take on the Celtics at the TD Garden. The Bulls, currently holding a 12-15 record, are riding a two-game winning streak, but they face uncertainty with the potential absence of their starting point guard, Josh Giddey. Giddey, who has been a pivotal playmaker for the Bulls, is listed as questionable due to a right ankle injury sustained in their recent victory over the Toronto Raptors. His absence could significantly impact the Bulls' offensive dynamics, as he has been averaging 11.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 6.9 assists per game this season.

On the other side, the Boston Celtics, the defending champions, are in excellent form, having won 12 of their last 14 games. They too are dealing with injury concerns, as their center Kristaps Porzingis is recovering from a right heel injury. Despite missing the first month of the season due to offseason surgery, Porzingis has been a key contributor, averaging 19 points and 7 rebounds in his limited appearances. His potential absence could affect the Celtics' interior presence, but the team has shown resilience and depth throughout the season.

In their previous encounter on November 29, 2024, the Celtics emerged victorious with a 138-129 win, led by Jayson Tatum's 35-point performance. The Celtics have consistently outperformed the Bulls in recent matchups, showcasing their offensive prowess and ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities. The Bulls, while competitive, have struggled to match the Celtics' efficiency, particularly in high-scoring games. As both teams aim to extend their winning streaks, the Celtics' home-court advantage and recent form make them a formidable opponent for the visiting Bulls.

Chicago Bulls at Boston Celtics Pick: Boston Celtics Moneyline

As the Chicago Bulls prepare to face the Boston Celtics at the TD Garden, the odds heavily favor the home team, and for good reason. The Celtics, reigning NBA champions, have been in exceptional form, winning 12 of their last 14 games. Their recent performances have showcased their offensive prowess, with Jayson Tatum leading the charge. In their last encounter with the Bulls on November 29, 2024, Tatum delivered a stellar 35-point performance, guiding the Celtics to a 138-129 victory. This game was a testament to the Celtics' ability to dominate offensively, as they shot 50% from the field and 42.6% from beyond the arc.

Moreover, the Celtics have consistently outperformed the Bulls in recent matchups, winning all four encounters over the past two seasons. Their ability to cover the spread in three of these games further underscores their dominance. The Celtics' depth and resilience have been evident, even as they manage injury concerns with key players like Kristaps Porzingis. Despite his potential absence due to a right heel injury, the Celtics have shown they can maintain their high level of play, thanks to their strong roster and strategic depth.

On the other hand, the Bulls face significant challenges, particularly with the uncertainty surrounding their starting point guard, Josh Giddey. His potential absence due to a right ankle injury could disrupt the Bulls' offensive rhythm, as Giddey has been a crucial playmaker, averaging 11.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 6.9 assists per game. While the Bulls have been competitive, their struggles to match the Celtics' scoring efficiency and their recent head-to-head record make them the underdogs in this matchup.

Given the Celtics' recent form, home-court advantage, and historical success against the Bulls, the pick for this game is the Boston Celtics Moneyline. The Celtics' ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities and their proven track record against the Bulls make them the clear favorites to secure another victory at home.

Chicago Bulls at Boston Celtics Top Player Prop Picks

Jayson Tatum Over 3.5 3Fgm +130 (BetRivers)

Jayson Tatum has been a consistent offensive force for the Boston Celtics, and his performance in the previous matchup against the Chicago Bulls on November 29, 2024, underscores his ability to deliver from beyond the arc. In that game, Tatum scored 35 points, showcasing his scoring prowess. The Celtics have been in excellent form, winning 12 of their last 14 games, and Tatum's shooting has been a key factor in their success. With the Bulls potentially missing their starting point guard Josh Giddey, the Celtics may find more opportunities to exploit defensive mismatches, allowing Tatum to capitalize on his three-point shooting. Given his recent form and the Celtics' offensive efficiency, betting on Tatum to exceed 3.5 three-pointers made at +130 odds presents a compelling value.

Zach LaVine Over 2.5 3Fgm -145 (DraftKings)

Zach LaVine has been a crucial component of the Chicago Bulls' offense, and his ability to score from long range will be vital against the Boston Celtics. Despite the Bulls' challenges, including the potential absence of Josh Giddey, LaVine's shooting remains a constant threat. In the previous encounter with the Celtics, LaVine contributed 29 points, demonstrating his capability to score efficiently. The Bulls have been competitive in high-scoring games, and LaVine's three-point shooting will be essential in keeping pace with the Celtics' potent offense. With LaVine frequently mentioned in trade rumors, he will be motivated to showcase his skills, making the over on 2.5 three-pointers made a strong proposition at -145 odds.

Kristaps Porziņģis Under 7.5 Rebounds +100 (FanDuel)

Kristaps Porziņģis has been dealing with a right heel injury, which could limit his effectiveness on the boards against the Chicago Bulls. Although he has been a key contributor for the Celtics, averaging 19 points and 7 rebounds in his limited appearances, the injury concerns and his recent absence from games suggest a cautious approach to his playing time. The Celtics have shown depth and resilience, which may lead to a more balanced distribution of minutes among their big men. With Porziņģis potentially not at full strength, taking the under on 7.5 rebounds at +100 odds offers a strategic play, especially considering the Celtics' ability to adapt and maintain their high level of play without relying heavily on any single player.