Celtics hold off Bulls 115-101 to move into second place in the East - Celtics Wire

Published: Tuesday, January 6, 2026 at 2:51 am

Celtics Surge to Second Place in Eastern Conference After Victory Over Bulls

The Boston Celtics secured a decisive victory over the Chicago Bulls on Monday night, winning 115-101 and climbing to second place in the Eastern Conference. The Celtics, known for their potent offense, showcased a strong defensive performance and dominated the rebounding game to secure the win.

Despite a relatively off night for star guard Jaylen Brown, who scored 14 points, the Celtics found contributions from other key players. Anfernee Simons stepped up, leading the team with a season-high 27 points off the bench. Payton Pritchard, the reigning Sixth Man of the Year, also played a crucial role, contributing 21 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists.

The Celtics' dominance was evident in several key areas. They attempted 18 more field goals than the Bulls, won the turnover battle, and capitalized on second-chance opportunities, scoring 26 points compared to Chicago's 12. Both teams struggled with their three-point shooting, finishing under 40% from beyond the arc.

The win propelled the Celtics past the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference standings, who suffered a significant loss to the Detroit Pistons. This victory marks the Celtics' eighth win in their last nine games. They will look to extend their winning streak in their upcoming home game against the Denver Nuggets on Wednesday evening.

BNN's Perspective: The Celtics' ability to win even when their star player isn't at his best is a testament to their depth and overall team strength. While the Knicks' loss may have been unexpected, the Celtics' consistent performance suggests they are a legitimate contender in the Eastern Conference. Their ability to adapt their game plan and rely on different players highlights their versatility and potential for a deep playoff run.

Keywords: Boston Celtics, Chicago Bulls, NBA, Eastern Conference, Jaylen Brown, Anfernee Simons, Payton Pritchard, Basketball, Sports, Victory, Win, Second Place, Defense, Rebounding, Scoring, Game

Full Story