Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose led his team to a win over the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday night as he enjoyed increased minutes after his return from injury.
Rose had 22 points, eight assists and no turnovers in 28 minutes in the win, and although it did come against the struggling Sixers, it was still enough to show that the former MVP has the aggression back in his game.
Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau would have been delighted with what he saw as he will need his franchise player at his best come the playoffs, although Rose will be fully aware that he still has a way to go before reaching his highest level of performance.
Pau Gasol added 24 points and 13 rebounds to help the Bulls remain tied with the Toronto Raptors for the third seed in the Eastern Conference, with their rivals also picking up a win on Saturday night.
Lou Williams scored 29 points in the win over the Miami Heat, as despite 30 points from Dwyane Wade, the Heat’s playoff push appears all-but over after a devastating loss so late in the season when they need wins.
Elsewhere, the New York Knicks defeated the Orlando Magic, while the Utah Jazz upset the Portland Trail Blazers at home with Trevor Booker putting up 36 points.
Stephen Curry posted 34 points, four rebounds and seven assists in the Golden State Warriors’ win over the Minnesota Timberwolves, as a career-high 37 points along with nine rebounds from Zach LaVine wasn’t enough for the visitors.
In a battle between two Western Conference foes, the Los Angeles Clippers prevailed against the Memphis Grizzlies as DeAndre Jordan starred for the hosts with 16 points and 16 rebounds to ensure that Zach Randolph’s effort (21 points, 13 rebounds, five assists) was in vain.
NBA Results
New York Knicks 80-79 Orlando Magic
Toronto Raptors 107-104 Miami Heat
Philadelphia 76ers 107-114 Chicago Bulls
Memphis Grizzlies 86-94 Los Angeles Clippers
Utah Jazz 111-105 Portland Trail Blazers
Minnesota Timberwolves 101-110 Golden State Warriors
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