Josh Giddey delivered a stellar all-around performance, posting 20 points, 13 rebounds, and 11 assists to lead the Chicago Bulls past the Brooklyn Nets, 128-102, on Monday night.
The victory snapped a rough patch for the Bulls, who had dropped three of their previous four games. For Giddey, it marked his first triple-double of the season and the 12th of his young NBA career, further solidifying his status as one of the league’s premier playmakers.
Nikola Vucevic contributed a commanding double-double of his own with 21 points and 10 rebounds, while rookie Matas Buzelis continued to impress with a career-high 20 points on a highly efficient 7-for-10 shooting performance. Zach LaVine added 18 points, providing a consistent scoring threat throughout the night.
Bulls Turn Up the Heat in the Third Quarter
Chicago took control of the game during the third quarter, outscoring Brooklyn 36-22 in the period. The turning point came when Giddey orchestrated a smooth transition play, finding Buzelis for a bucket that stretched the Bulls’ lead to 92-72 heading into the final frame. The duo’s chemistry was on full display, showcasing why Chicago’s offense is becoming a formidable force this season.
Brooklyn Struggles with Depth Amid Injury Woes
The Nets, now losers of three straight games in just four days, struggled to keep pace. Injuries continue to plague Brooklyn, with forward Cam Johnson sidelined by a sprained left ankle. Johnson, who had dropped 26 points in Sunday’s loss to Orlando, was sorely missed. Despite their best efforts, Brooklyn shot just 40% from the field, including a lackluster 14-for-42 from beyond the arc.
Dariq Whitehead led the Nets with 18 points, while Dennis Schroder contributed 16 points and 10 assists. However, the team’s inability to sustain offensive rhythm and defensive intensity in the second half ultimately sealed their fate.
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Giddey’s Triple-Double Sets the Tone
Giddey’s ability to dictate the pace was instrumental in Chicago’s win. His court vision and decision-making fueled the Bulls’ offensive surge, particularly during a critical stretch in the first half. Chicago used a 13-0 run to take a 50-42 lead late in the second quarter, with Giddey capping the momentum-shifting stretch by drilling a three-pointer. From that point on, the Bulls never looked back.
Vucevic Anchors Chicago’s Dominance
Vucevic’s steady presence in the paint and ability to stretch the floor added another layer to Chicago’s attack. The veteran big man knocked down three of the Bulls’ 16 three-pointers, showcasing his versatility as a scoring option. His contributions on the boards also helped limit Brooklyn’s second-chance opportunities, further tipping the scales in Chicago’s favor.
Buzelis Shines in Breakout Performance
Buzelis continues to look like a rising star for Chicago. The rookie’s confidence and efficiency were evident throughout the game, particularly in the third quarter when he connected on several key baskets to extend the Bulls’ lead. His ability to score at all three levels adds a dynamic element to Chicago’s offense that could prove critical as the season progresses.
Defensive Effort Fuels Bulls’ Success
While the offensive fireworks stole the spotlight, Chicago’s defense played a crucial role in the victory. The Bulls effectively neutralized Brooklyn’s perimeter threats, holding the Nets to just 33% shooting from three-point range in the second half. Chicago’s ability to contest shots and close out on shooters disrupted Brooklyn’s offensive flow and set the stage for their third-quarter dominance.
Nets Show Signs of Fatigue
Brooklyn appeared fatigued in the second half, a byproduct of their packed schedule and limited rotation. Despite keeping the game competitive in the first two quarters, the Nets couldn’t maintain their energy or execution down the stretch. The team’s lack of depth, exacerbated by injuries, remains a significant hurdle as they try to navigate a challenging early-season slate.
Bulls’ Shooting Streak Rolls On
Chicago’s offensive efficiency continues to be a bright spot. The Bulls shot 52.2% from the field, marking their sixth consecutive game shooting over 50%—the longest active streak in the NBA this season. This level of consistency bodes well for a team looking to establish itself as a legitimate contender in the Eastern Conference.
What’s Next?
The Nets will look to regroup on Wednesday night when they host the Indiana Pacers, hoping to end their three-game skid. Meanwhile, the Bulls head to San Antonio on Thursday, aiming to build on their momentum and extend their winning streak.
For Chicago, the challenge will be maintaining their recent offensive rhythm against tougher opponents, while Brooklyn must find a way to stay competitive amid a growing list of absences. One thing is clear: the Bulls are on the rise, and Giddey’s performance is a big reason why.
