Jayson Tatum shines with historic score as Celtics dominate Bulls in Chicago

In a dazzling performance on Saturday night at Chicago’s United Center, Jayson Tatum led the Boston Celtics to a commanding 123-98 triumph over the Chicago Bulls. Tatum’s stellar triple-double—43 points (9-of-15 from three-point range), 16 rebounds, and 10 assists—avenged the Celtics' recent loss to the same team just two days prior. He became the first player in Celtics history to achieve a triple-double with at least 40 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists.

Tatum dominated the game and exited the court with over three minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, earning a standing ovation from numerous Celtics fans present in Chicago.

Kristaps Porzingis contributed 22 points and seven rebounds, while Jaylen Brown added 19 points, five rebounds, and eight assists to coach Joe Mazzulla’s team’s victory. Dominican player Al Horford scored eight points and grabbed seven rebounds for Boston.

With this win, the Celtics hold the second spot in the NBA’s Eastern Conference, boasting a 22-6 record, trailing only the Cleveland Cavaliers (25-4).

Despite Nikola Vucevic posting a double-double with 19 points and 10 rebounds, the Bulls struggled at home as Zach LaVine scored just 14 points.

The Bulls and Celtics faced off again just two days after LaVine spearheaded a surprising victory for coach Billy Donovan’s team at Boston’s TD Garden, scoring 36 points.

In this rematch, the Bulls capitalized on the Celtics' poor three-point shooting—14-of-56—and secured their third consecutive win of the season.

LaVine showcased excellent form amidst speculation about his potential departure from the Bulls, with the Denver Nuggets emerging as a possible destination, according to U.S. media outlets.

Saturday’s game at the United Center, where tickets were selling for over $100, saw the Bulls leading the Celtics for two quarters.

Riding Tatum’s pace

However, Joe Mazzulla’s team, always solid and clear-headed, managed game moments effectively and took control by accelerating alongside Tatum.

The Celtics' point guard, wearing number 0, was a nightmare for the Bulls' defense, scoring from nearly every position. His three-pointers, mid-range shots, drives, and dunks pushed Chicago to its limits, which clung to the game thanks to LaVine’s accuracy and Vucevic’s dominance in the paint.

Tatum ended the third quarter with a powerful one-handed dunk over Jalen Smith and two three-pointers, extending the Celtics' lead to 93-77.

Tatum secured a monumental triple-double, briefly considering surpassing 50 points. Realizing it wouldn’t be feasible with just over three minutes left, he attempted a three-pointer that was blocked between the rim and the backboard.

He left the court smiling, cheered on by the many fans who attended the United Center wearing green Celtics jerseys.

The Windy City game also featured Megan Thee Stallion, who attended the game sitting courtside and was applauded by the crowd.

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