The Chicago Bulls extended their homestand record to 3-1 with a 118-113 triumph over the Atlanta Hawks at the United Center on Tuesday night. Here are 10 key observations:
1. Before the game, coach Billy Donovan announced that Nikola Vučević would be sidelined for the short term due to a strained left groin. As a result, Andre Drummond earned his first start as a Bull, marking a significant moment for the experienced center with 630 career starts, primarily from his All-Star days with the Detroit Pistons. Tuesday marked the first time Drummond heard the familiar “man in the middle” call from public address announcer Tim Sinclair as the starting center.
2. Drummond capitalized on his first stint in the rotation, contributing six points, including an alley-oop dunk from DeMar DeRozan and two putbacks off offensive rebounds. His defensive prowess was evident with a emphatic block against Clint Capela’s hook shot.
3. In response to Vučević’s absence, Donovan implemented small-ball lineups to adapt. This strategic move is consistent with Donovan’s inclination toward such lineups, a preference demonstrated earlier with departed player Derrick Jones Jr. often playing at center. Against the Hawks, Donovan deployed the rarely-used Terry Taylor, standing at 6 feet 5 inches, as a small-ball center. Additionally, Patrick Williams may also see playing time as the backup center.
Here are some key takeaways from the Chicago Bulls’ 118-113 victory over the Atlanta Hawks:
1. The Bulls struggled from beyond the arc in the early stages of the game, missing their first six 3-point attempts. However, a late burst in the first quarter, including two 3-pointers from Jevon Carter and one from Ayo Dosunmu, helped them finish 7-for-25 from long range.
2. DeMar DeRozan showcased his playmaking skills before scoring his first points, recording four assists. Despite a slow start in scoring, DeRozan made significant contributions in the third and fourth quarters, finishing with 21 points and 11 points in those respective periods.
3. The Bulls had a balanced scoring effort with six players reaching double figures, making it easier for DeRozan to close out games. DeRozan emphasized his role in playmaking and decision-making during crucial moments.
4. Alex Caruso achieved his 200th steal in just his 134th game as a Bull, joining a select group of players, including Michael Jordan, Kris Dunn, and Scottie Pippen, who posted more steals in their initial 134 games with the franchise.
5. Trae Young’s impressive streak of seven consecutive games with at least 30 points and 10 assists came to an end as he finished with 21 points and 13 assists, guarded frequently by Alex Caruso.
6. Andre Drummond had a standout performance, recording his second 20-point game as a Bull and securing a 20-point/20-rebound game for the first time since January 31, 2021. This marked the 45th 20-20 game of Drummond’s career, tying him for the 15th most in NBA history.
7. Coby White continued to struggle from beyond the arc, missing all seven of his 3-point attempts. Despite his shooting woes, White contributed 19 points and five assists. Ayo Dosunmu stepped up with 19 points, providing a significant offensive boost.
8. Alex Caruso and DeMar DeRozan made key plays down the stretch, with Caruso sinking a crucial 3-pointer and drawing a charge, while DeRozan showcased elite footwork for a crucial late basket.
9. Coach Billy Donovan praised DeRozan for his professionalism, buy-in, and versatility in adapting to different playing styles. Donovan highlighted DeRozan’s greatness, not only as an elite closer but also as a team player who prioritizes winning.
10. DeRozan expressed gratitude for the trust and support he receives from his coach, emphasizing that he never takes anything for granted. He acknowledged the importance of mutual respect and teamwork in achieving success.
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