Bulls Limp Back to Boston After 35-Point Beatdown

Four days ago, the Celtics hung 134 points on Chicago and sent them packing with a 35-point humiliation. Now the Bulls get to run it back on short rest, still missing starting center Nic Claxton and possibly Patrick Williams. What could go wrong?

Everything, apparently. Chicago's defense has been a turnstile during this three-game skid, hemorrhaging 130.2 points per night while their offense sputters at a league-worst 103.8 rating. Meanwhile, Boston's humming at 114.9 on the offensive end and just proved they can score at will against this exact roster. The Celtics didn't just win last Saturday—they made a statement, and nothing in Chicago's situation has improved since.

DarkHorse AI likes Boston at -770, and honestly, the only question is whether the Celtics take their foot off the gas in garbage time. The 15.5-point spread feels almost generous given the recent evidence. Chicago's banged up, exhausted, and showing zero defensive resistance. Boston's healthy, rested, and clearly has this matchup figured out.

Unless Billy Donovan's halftime speeches suddenly include magic spells, expect another long night for the visitors. The Celtics should cruise, and bettors backing them at -770 are simply paying the freight for a near-certainty. Sometimes the obvious play is obvious for a reason.