Boston Celtics vs Chicago Bulls: Injury Report and Player Status Update

The Boston Celtics are set to face the Chicago Bulls on January 24, 2026, at the United Center. This game is significant for both teams as they compete within the tightly contested Eastern Conference. Boston enters the matchup with a record of 28-16, while Chicago sits at 22-22.

Boston Celtics vs Chicago Bulls: Player Status Update

The Celtics will be missing their star player, Jayson Tatum, who is recovering from right Achilles surgery. Additionally, Josh Minott will not play due to a left ankle sprain, and Max Shulga remains sidelined on a G League two-way contract. Jaylen Brown, who leads the team in scoring, is listed as probable due to left hamstring tightness. Neemias Queta is also deemed probable after missing recent games due to a non-COVID illness.

On the other hand, the Bulls face a more challenging situation. Zach Collins is out with a right first toe sprain, while Noa Essengue is recovering from left shoulder surgery. Tre Jones is hindered by a left hamstring strain, and Yuki Kawamura and Emanuel Miller will also be unavailable. Despite these setbacks, both Josh Giddey and Patrick Williams have been cleared to play, with Giddey expected to drive much of the offense.

Injury Reports

• Celtics:
  • Jayson Tatum – Out (Achilles surgery)
  • Josh Minott – Out (Ankle sprain)
  • Max Shulga – Out (G League)
  • Jaylen Brown – Probable (Hamstring tightness)
  • Neemias Queta – Probable (Non-COVID illness)
• Bulls:
  • Zach Collins – Out (Toe sprain)
  • Noa Essengue – Out (Shoulder surgery)
  • Tre Jones – Out (Hamstring strain)
  • Yuki Kawamura – Out
  • Emanuel Miller – Out

Expected Lineups for the Game

For Boston, the expected starters include:

• Jaylen Brown
• Derrick White
• Payton Pritchard
• Neemias Queta (if cleared)

Anfernee Simons will provide crucial bench depth.

The Bulls are likely to start with:

• Nikola Vucevic
• Matas Buzelis
• Ayo Dosunmu
• Josh Giddey

Jalen Smith’s role off the bench is increasingly vital due to the limited roster.

Team Performance and Head-to-Head

In terms of previous matchups, Boston holds a 138-110 advantage over Chicago in regular-season play. The two teams last met earlier this month, with Boston emerging victorious while containing Brown to just 14 points.

Team Statistics

What Will Decide the Game

The Celtics aim to utilize ball movement and spacing to mitigate Tatum’s absence. Meanwhile, Chicago needs consistent performances from Giddey and Vucevic to remain competitive. With both teams dealing with injuries, effective execution and depth will likely be pivotal in determining the game’s outcome.