Tag: Chicago Bulls

by Richard Miller (US)

Bulls Rally Past Grizzlies for a 118-110 Victory, DeRozan Leads with 30 Points

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Chicago Bulls mounted a spirited fourth-quarter rally to overcome the Memphis Grizzlies 118-110 on Thursday night, showcasing their depth and resilience. DeMar DeRozan spearheaded the Bulls’ offense with a game-high 30 points, leading his team to its second consecutive win and third in their last four outings.

Andre Drummond’s impactful double-double, consisting of 21 points and 13 rebounds, alongside his impressive 10 of 11 shooting from the field, was instrumental in the victory. Nikola Vucevic and Coby White each contributed significantly, adding 20 points apiece, with Vucevic also securing 10 rebounds.

The strategic decision by Bulls coach Billy Donovan to deploy centers Drummond and Vucevic together on the court paid dividends, as the duo dominated the paint and led Chicago to a commanding 46-34 rebounding advantage over Memphis. This unconventional lineup posed a unique challenge for the Grizzlies, with Drummond expressing enthusiasm about the potential of this partnership.

Memphis, despite a strong performance from Jaren Jackson Jr., who scored 28 points before fouling out, and an impressive showing from GG Jackson with 27 points, could not stave off the Bulls’ late surge. The Grizzlies, who have been plagued by injuries, suffered their seventh consecutive loss, struggling to maintain their lead in the fourth quarter.

GG Jackson, a two-way player and a notable pick from last year’s draft, provided a silver lining for Memphis with his scoring versatility, earning praise from Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins. However, the team’s reliance on a makeshift lineup in critical moments of the game, particularly in the closing quarters, has been a recurring challenge this season.

The game was tightly contested, with neither team able to establish a double-digit lead. Entering the fourth quarter with a slight edge, Memphis extended their lead to six points, only for Chicago to respond with a decisive 19-6 run, claiming a 104-97 advantage and ultimately securing the win.

This matchup further highlighted the Grizzlies’ struggle to find consistency with their ever-changing starting lineups, exacerbated by recent trades and ongoing injury woes. The return of Jaren Jackson Jr. after a brief absence due to hip soreness was a notable moment, with the forward making an immediate impact.

As the Bulls look ahead to continuing their four-game road trip in Orlando, the Grizzlies aim to halt their losing streak in Charlotte. Both teams face the challenge of adjusting to recent roster changes and finding a winning formula as they navigate through the remainder of the season.

by Richard Miller (US)

Kings Hold Off Bulls’ Late Rally, Win 123-115 in Chicago

CHICAGO — The Sacramento Kings continued their impressive run on Saturday night, holding off a late surge by the Chicago Bulls to secure a 123-115 victory. With this win, the Kings improved their record to 5-1 on their current seven-game trip, showcasing their resilience and team chemistry.

De’Aaron Fox led the charge with a spectacular 41-point performance, while Domantas Sabonis notched his 14th triple-double of the season, contributing 13 points, 14 rebounds, and 10 assists. Sabonis’ consistency was highlighted by his remarkable achievement of recording at least a double-double in 31 consecutive games.

Malik Monk also played a key role in the victory, adding 22 points off the bench, as the Kings have now won six of their last seven games. This streak includes a notable 133-122 victory against Indiana the previous night, underlining their current form.

The Bulls, despite missing several key players due to injuries, put up a valiant effort. Coby White stepped up with 26 points, and DeMar DeRozan added 24 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. Nikola Vucevic’s double-double of 24 points and 12 rebounds also stood out, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Kings’ dynamic offense.

Zach LaVine’s absence was particularly felt by the Bulls, as the team announced he would undergo season-ending surgery on his right foot next week. The Bulls’ injury woes were compounded by the absences of Patrick Williams and Dalen Terry, though Torrey Craig made his return after a six-week hiatus due to a right foot injury.

Despite trailing by as many as 30 points in the third quarter, the Bulls managed to cut the deficit to just three points in the final minute. However, clutch free throws from Fox and Malik Monk, along with Harrison Barnes’ contributions from the line, ensured the Kings emerged victorious.

Sabonis emphasized the team’s growth, acknowledging their ability to stay focused and make critical plays down the stretch as key to their success.

The Kings aim to continue their winning momentum as they head to Cleveland for their next game on Monday night. Meanwhile, the Bulls look to regroup and bounce back when they host Minnesota on Tuesday night, hoping to overcome their injury challenges and rediscover their form.