Josh Giddey, Bulls, Michael Jordan
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Josh Giddey #3 of the Chicago Bulls looks on against the Philadelphia 76ers during the second half at the United Center on November 04, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.
The Chicago Bulls host the Boston Celtics on Saturday night at the United Center.
The game carries added significance beyond the matchup itself. The Bulls will retire Derrick Rose‘s jersey during a halftime ceremony, honoring the franchise’s youngest MVP and most beloved player of the modern era.
Chicago enters the game at 22-22 after defeating the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday night. The win was notable for more than just the result. Josh Giddey returned from an 11-game absence and delivered 21 points in 26 minutes off the bench.
Saturday’s injury report provides clarity on who will be available for both sides.
Giddey’s Status After A Strong Return
Giddey appears on the injury report as probable with the same hamstring injury that kept him out for nearly three weeks.
His return Thursday against Minnesota showed why his absence hurt the Bulls so much.
The Australian was playing at an All-Star level before the injury. His ability to organize the offense, dictate pace, and create advantages early in possessions gives Chicago a natural flow that disappeared during his absence.
He came off the bench Thursday as head coach Billy Donovan eased him back into the rotation. That approach will likely continue Saturday, especially with the probable designation indicating some lingering caution around the hamstring.
Bulls on CHSN
“I think we’re starting to put the pieces together.”
Josh Giddey with @KCJHoop after posting 21 PTS, 6 REB & 6 AST in his return to action!
Bulls Navigating Multiple Injury Questions
Giddey is not the only name on th Bulls’ injury report.
Patrick Williams is listed as probable with a right ankle sprain. Lachlan Olbrich also carries a probable designation while dealing with a right thoracic strain. Both players are expected to be available Saturday.
Tre Jones remains out with a hamstring injury. He will be re-evaluated in two weeks.
Zach Collins is out with a toe injury and will not return before the All-Star break. Noa Essengue is out for the season after undergoing left shoulder surgery in early December.
Celtics Playing on Back-to-Back After Double OT
Boston comes into Saturday on the second night of a back-to-back.
The Celtics survived a wild 130-126 double-overtime victory over the Brooklyn Nets on Friday night. Jaylen Brown recorded his fifth career triple-double. Payton Pritchard led the team with 32 points. The Celtics hit 22 three-pointers and needed every one of them.
Derrick White was rested Friday and is likely available Saturday. Jayson Tatum remains out as he continues recovering from a ruptured Achilles tendon. Josh Minott is also out with an ankle sprain.
The double-overtime game Friday means Boston’s rotation logged heavy minutes. Brown played 47 minutes. Pritchard played 46 minutes. Sam Hauser played 41 minutes. The fatigue factor could play a role Saturday night. And they could decide to rest players.
Boston sits 28-16 and holds the second-best record in the Eastern Conference.
Hoop Central
HUGO GONZALEZ SENDS IT TO DOUBLE OVERTIME. 🔥🔥
Final Word for the Bulls
Saturday night offers the Bulls an opportunity.
The Celtics logged heavy minutes Friday and will be dealing with fatigue. And the United Center crowd will be energized by the Derrick Rose jersey retirement ceremony.
The Bulls sit at .500 with the trade deadline nearing. This is a team searching for its identity. Now, Giddey’s return gives them a chance to build momentum.
The Bulls need this one more than Boston does. And the circumstances are in their favor.