The Chicago Bulls are hosting the Boston Celtics in an Eastern Conference clash, with both teams coming off contrasting results. While the Celtics have been rolling, only dropping one game in their last nine, the Bulls are stuck in a win-loss pattern over their past seven. Boston’s lineup is even stronger now with Kristaps Porzingis back, which only adds to the defending champions’ momentum. Meanwhile, Chicago continues to struggle, particularly at home, where their inefficiency has been noticeable.

The Bulls are tied with the Pistons at 10th in the East, holding an 8-12 record. In their most recent game, they fell to Orlando 119-133, despite shooting an impressive 53% from the floor. Ayo Dosunmu led Chicago’s scorers with 21 points on 10-of-12 shooting. Meanwhile, Zach LaVine had a tough night, scoring only 8 points.

With a 15-3 record, the Celtics are holding strong in second place in the East. In their latest outing, they cruised past the Clippers, 126-94, shooting 51% from the floor. Kristaps Porzingis made his emphatic return, posting 16 points and 6 rebounds. Meanwhile, Jayson Tatum and Payton Pritchard chipped in with 20 points each to lead the scoring.

Let us take a look at both teams’ injury reports and depth charts.

Will the Celtics with the 2nd best offense in the league steamroll the Bulls?

The C’s only have one player listed on their injury report. Luke Kornet is listed as probable for Friday’s game against the Bulls because of tightness in his right hamstring. While he might be cleared to play, the return of Al Horford (illness) and Kristaps Porzingis likely means Kornet won’t have a major role in the rotation. His return is expected to be more of a depth option for the Celtics.

Only one name on the injury report is a dream for many franchises right now. This is the first time the C’s would be at their full strength.

Can the Chicago Bulls upset the Celtics?

The Bulls are still in the hunt for an NBA Cup knockout spot with a 2-1 record heading into Friday’s matchup. However, they’ll be missing some key players against Boston, which could hurt their chances.

Coby White’s availability for Friday’s game against the Celtics is questionable because of a left wrist sprain. The Bulls are already without Patrick Williams, so White’s absence would hurt their offensive options even more.

Lonzo Ball, who is recovering from a right wrist sprain, is probable for the game. He returned after missing 15 games in Wednesday’s loss to the Magic, posting six points, four steals, three assists, two blocks, and one rebound in just 15 minutes of action.

Dalen Terry (ankle) is questionable after leaving the Magic game early, playing only two minutes. Jalen Smith (ankle) is also listed as questionable, as he sat out the Magic game and it’s unclear if he’ll be ready for Friday. Williams (foot) will miss his sixth consecutive game. He has no clear timetable for a return, and the earliest he might play is Monday against the Nets.

If the Celtics take down the Bulls, they’ll have a chance to move on to the knockout round—either by clinching the division or grabbing a wildcard spot. Here’s the kicker: if the Cavs beat the Hawks earlier in the day, Boston’s win over Chicago locks them into the knockout round. So, it’s all in their hands!

What do you think? Will the Bulls be a hurdle in the C’s path?