Offensive disappointments at both ends, but the Bulls come out on top.
The Chicago Bulls held on through a disappointing fourth quarter to clinch a 79-76 win over the Brooklyn Nets on Thursday night, as they took a 2-1 series lead.
Tom Thibodeau’s men scored just 14 points in the final 12 minutes, allowing the Nets to reduce a 17-point deficit to just two with seconds remaining.
However, Brooklyn were equally as disappointing through the first three quarters, having shot just 28 percent from the field as they now surrender their lead in the series and fall behind after two consecutive defeats.
The bulk of the points for the Bulls arrived through Carlos Boozer who had 22 points as well as 16 rebounds, while Luol Deng added 21 points and 10 rebounds.
Following a disappointing opening game, Bulls forward Taj Gibson revealed that coach Thibodeau called his players out for their defensive display. It is clear the Bulls have responded since, as they have limited Brooklyn in the last two meetings, and put themselves in a good position to win games.
As for the Nets, they were led by Brook Lopez who had 22 points, with Deron Williams and Joe Johnson the only other two players to reach double scoring figures.
The series continues on Saturday when the Bulls will look to open up a 3-1 lead when the two teams meet again at the United Center for Game 4.
COMMENTS