Fast Bulls visit the slowest team in the league, the Celtics

The Bulls (31-51), second fastest in the league last season, visit the slowest Celtics (56-26) on Monday, October 26, at 7:30 PM ET, in a game that turns on whose tempo prevails.

The figures are from last season, with this season's rosters. Chicago played at a pace of 104.3 possessions. Boston, at 97.1, ranked last among 30 teams, so one side will have to give up the tempo it wants.

Boston scored 118.1 points per 100 possessions, second in the league, and gave the ball away on 10.5% of them, the lowest rate. Chicago forced turnovers on 10.6% of opponents' possessions, 29th of 30.

The Bulls' defense allowed 116 points per 100 possessions, 22nd in the league, while Boston's allowed 110.2, fourth best. Chicago's offense scored 111.1 per 100, 24th.

Norman Powell led Chicago with 21.7 points a game and shot 82.7% at the line. Josh Giddey averaged 9.1 assists and 8.3 rebounds.

For Boston, Paul George averaged 17.3 points and 1.7 steals in 37 games. Mitchell Robinson pulled down 8.8 rebounds a night, 4.2 of them on the offensive end.

Chicago is without Nicolas Claxton, who played 27.8 minutes a game and is out until Wednesday, November 4. Patrick Williams, who averaged 20.5 minutes, is questionable, as is Noa Essengue. Boston will be without guard Devin Carter, out until Sunday, November 8.

Sportsbooks' prices give the Celtics an 85% chance to win. Keel's projection, built from the players available, puts it at 82%.