Chicago Bulls vs Boston Celtics at TD Garden: Full injury report, viewing guide, odds & game breakdown (Jan 5, 2026)

The Chicago Bulls arrive in Boston tonight at 17-18, still trying to steady themselves after a 112-99 loss to Charlotte. Injuries have followed them through this stretch, and another tough test comes on the road against a Celtics team that has been consistent at home all season.Boston sits at 22-12 and has won three straight games, including a 146-115 rout of the Clippers. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET at TD Garden, where the Celtics have leaned on depth and execution even while missing their top scorer.

Chicago Bulls vs Boston Celtics Injury Report and Player Availability (January 5, 2026)

Chicago Bulls remains short-handed. Josh Giddey is out with a left hamstring strain after averaging 19 points, 8 rebounds, and 9 assists. Zach Collins is sidelined with a right toe sprain, Jalen Smith is out with a concussion, and Trentyn Flowers continues to recover from a right knee sprain.

Noa Essengue remains out following left shoulder surgery, while Emanuel Miller is unavailable due to a G League assignment.Coby White is listed as questionable because of right calf injury management. If he cannot go, the Bulls will lean heavily on Ayo Dosunmu, who is shooting 43 percent from three, and Nikola Vucevic, who is averaging 16 points and 8 rebounds.

Boston Celtics will be without Jayson Tatum as he continues to recover from right Achilles repair surgery.

The Celtics have, however, reinforced their rotation with the return of Ron Harper Jr., Max Shulga, and Amari Williams from the G League. Jaylen Brown remains the focal point after a recent 30-point, 6-rebound, 5-assist performance, with Derrick White providing steady production on both ends.

Boston Celtics vs Chicago Bulls Where to Watch and Listen (January 5, 2026)

The game will air locally on NBC Sports Boston and Chicago Sports Network. Fans can also stream the matchup through Fubo or NBA League Pass.

Radio coverage is available on 98.5 The Sports Hub in Boston and 670 The Score in Chicago. Tickets at TD Garden are still available, with upper-level seats starting around $78.

Bulls vs Celtics Game Outlook and Key Matchups

Boston Celtics enter the night favored by 11.5 points, with the total set around 234.5. The Celtics’ edge comes from their balance and home-court consistency, led by Brown’s scoring and Payton Pritchard’s ability to pressure opposing guards.Chicago Bulls’ chance hinge on its frontcourt and perimeter shooting. Vucevic’s matchup with Neemias Queta inside will matter, especially if the Bulls need second-chance points. Dosunmu’s shooting becomes even more important if White is limited or unable to play. This is the first meeting between the teams this season, with Boston projected to win 123-111, though Chicago has managed to stay competitive against the spread in road games.

Chicago Bulls vs Boston Celtics Betting Odds and Predictions (January 5, 2026)

Projections give Boston about a 71 percent chance to win, while Chicago covers the spread in roughly 56 percent of simulations. Player props lean toward Jaylen Brown scoring over 30.5 points, and Chicago’s team total has gone over frequently in road games.