Coming into tonight's game down 1-0 in the series to the Washington Wizards, the Chicago Bulls didn't need a win, but they really could have used one. Unfortunately they couldn't get that win as the Washington Wizards handed the Bulls a devastating loss, 101-99. Now they will have to win two out of three games in Washington to bring the series back to Chicago.
After the first quarter, Washington seemed like they were on there way to a blowout, gaining an 11 point lead. Chicago then went on to win the second quarter to make the score at halftime 56-49. A huge third quarter is what kept the Bulls in their game. They won the quarter by 12 points to put themselves up by seven. Their defense was very good in the quarter, only allowing the Wizards to score 14 points. After being tied after regulation, Washington seemed like they wouldn't let the game be close in the overtime period, After pulling ahead 101-95 with 48 seconds left, Washington allowed Chicago to score four straight points, but finally ended with a two point victory.
Usually, it is the Bulls' offense that doesn't allow them to win games. This time, it was their defense, as they allowed Washington to shoot 49% from the floor and only forced 12 turnovers. Joakim Noah continued his great play, with 20 points and 12 rebounds on 8 of 14 shooting. D.J. Augustin played great, scoring 25 points in a losing effort. "Sixth Man of the Year candidate" Taj Gibson scored 22 points and grabbed 10 boards. Player of the game, though, undoubtedly goes to Bradley Beal, who scored 26 points and grabbed seven boards in a winning effort. If the Bulls want to come back in this series, their defense will have to return to its normal level and they will need to find a consistent scorer.