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Boston Celtics vs. Chicago Bulls: Game Outlook

By Daniel Coughlin

Dec 9, 2015; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Celtics guard Isaiah Thomas (4) returns the ball against Chicago Bulls guard Jimmy Butler (21) in the second half at TD Garden. Celtics defeated the Bulls 105-100. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 9, 2015; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Celtics guard Isaiah Thomas (4) returns the ball against Chicago Bulls guard Jimmy Butler (21) in the second half at TD Garden. Celtics defeated the Bulls 105-100. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 20, 2016; Omaha, NE, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Doug McDermott (11) attempts a shot against the Atlanta Hawks at CenturyLink Center Omaha. Atlanta defeated Chicago 97-81. Mandatory Credit: Steven Branscombe-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 20, 2016; Omaha, NE, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Doug McDermott (11) attempts a shot against the Atlanta Hawks at CenturyLink Center Omaha. Atlanta defeated Chicago 97-81. Mandatory Credit: Steven Branscombe-USA TODAY Sports /

All Hands on Deck

The Bulls have a considerably healthier team than they did for what amounts to almost the entire season last year. Whether it was Mike Dunleavy, Nikola Mirotic, Derrick Rose or Joakim Noah – among others – the Bulls were almost always missing important pieces due to injury. Heading into their season opener on Thursday, the team is in good health.

Cristiano Felicio was dealing with a neck injury, but could go full practice heading into the opener. Denzel Valentine missed almost the entire preseason schedule because of an ankle injury, but he’s probable to make his Bulls debut during the season opener on Thursday night.

If Valentine can make his rookie debut, it would give the fans a little more to talk about and that’s a good thing. The health of Felicio is particularly important because he is the backup center.

Boston will be shorthanded; Kelly Olynyk will be out with a shoulder injury. He probably doesn’t figure into any of the short-term plans for the Celtics. Marcus Smart is a different story. He’s injured but should be ready to roll soon. However, he will miss the game at the United Center.

With Smart and Olynyk missing, this will be the best chance for Chicago to steal a game. They already have a lot to play for, but the pride of being one of the best teams in the East will be put to the test when they take on a team that will be one of the best in the East. At least they have their health.

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