Bulls take full advantage of Davis’ absence in second half…
It was a busy night in the NBA on Saturday despite there being only seven games on the schedule with the Chicago Bulls picking up a big win in New Orleans.
The Bulls have been struggling in recent weeks, but they finally showed the type of stifling defense that has brought them great success over the last five years with a big win over the Pelicans.
Pau Gasol had 20 points, 15 assists, four assists and three blocks while Derrick Rose (20 points), Tony Snell (19) and Jimmy Butler (18) ensured the visitors claimed the win, while the hosts were anxiously waiting on news of Anthony Davis’ injury.
The star power forward landed heavily after completing an alley-oop dunk, and although he did stay in the game initially, he was forced to miss the second half as Chicago went on a 40-11 run.
X-rays were negative on Davis’ shoulder, but he is expected to further examination on Sunday to reveal the extent of the damage.
Elsewhere, the Washington Wizards ended a five-game losing streak with a big win over the Brooklyn Nets at the Verizon Center.
All 13 players on the roster scored with John Wall leading the way with 17 points while Rasual Butler added 15 as Washington scored 64 of their points in the paint.
The win moves them to 32-20 for for the season and they will hope that they can now build on the result and get back to their early-season form.
Over in the West, the Golden State Warriors bounced back from their loss to the Atlanta Hawks by defeating the New York Knicks at MSG.
Draymond Green ended the game with 20 points and 13 rebounds as the Carmelo-less Knicks didn’t have enough answers to push the visitors who improve to 40-9.
Meanwhile, the Dallas Mavericks needed overtime to see off the Portland Trail Blazers at home on Saturday, with Chandler Parsons scoring 20 points and grabbing nine rebounds.
Damian Lillard put up 26 points, seven rebounds and seven assists, but it wasn’t enough for the visitors as they are now narrowly above their rivals for fourth place in the West.
NBA Results
Chicago Bulls 107-72 New Orleans Pelicans
Brooklyn Nets 77-114 Washington Wizards
Golden State Warriors 106-92 New York Knicks
Charlotte Hornets 81-89 Philadelphia 76ers
Portland Trail Blazers 101-111 Dallas Mavericks
Boston Celtics 93-96 Milwaukee Bucks
Sacramento Kings 90-102 Utah Jazz
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