Luol Deng scores 26 and leads the Bulls 91-86 over the Boston Celtics. The Celtics were strong defensively in the first half holding the Bulls to zero three pointers and 34.3% shooting as they held a lead at halftime. Boston came out sluggish in the third quarter however, scoring only 17 points while allowing the Bulls to put up 29.
Boston’s scoring leader in the game was Paul Pierce with 22 points, including three 3-pointers. Kevin Garnett pulled down 14 rebounds while scoring 12 points. Chicago’s Derrick Rose did not play and was a gametime decision after missing 21 games including the past 11 due to a groin injury.
Boston falls to 30-25 in the standings after the loss. The Celtics are narrowly holding on to the fourth seed with a half game advantage over Atlanta. Their next game is scheduled on the road Saturday, Apr 7 against the Indiana Pacers.
The Celtics have been solid defensively and continued that trend through the first half holding the Bulls to zero three pointers and 34.3% shooting as they lead at halftime 49-38. The Bulls have kept it close by going 14-17 from the free throw line. Going into Thursday night’s game, the Celtics have held 10 straight opponents under 100 points.
Boston’s scoring leader in the first half was Paul Pierce with 17 points, including two 3-pointers. Chicago’s Derrick Rose did not play and was a gametime decision after missing 21 games including the past 11 due to a groin injury.
Avery Bradley has filled in nicely for injured Ray Allen scoring double digits in five of his last six games. He has only four points tonight however in 14 minutes of action.
The Bulls are lead in scoring by Benter Joakim Noah with 9 points and 5 rebounds. Carlos Boozer has chipped in 5 points and 9 rebounds.
