CHICAGO — Zach LaVine delivered a stellar performance by scoring 33 points, leading the Chicago Bulls to a decisive 138-105 victory over the Washington Wizards on Friday evening.
Nikola Vu?evi? contributed significantly as well, recording 23 points along with 13 rebounds. Both Coby White and Jalen Smith added to the scoreboard with 15 points each. This win marked the Bulls’ fifth victory in their last seven games, allowing them to avenge a previous loss to the Wizards on January 1, where they fell 125-107.
In the first half, LaVine was particularly effective, netting 18 points, which helped the Bulls take control of the game early on. Jordan Poole made his return for the Wizards after missing three games due to a left hip contusion and led his team with 22 points. Jared Butler also offered support with 18 points, but Washington’s struggles continued, leaving them with a league-worst record of 6-30.
The game began with the Wizards scoring first, but the Bulls quickly seized the lead and maintained it. By halftime, Chicago was ahead 68-58 and extended their lead further with a 9-0 run midway through the third quarter, effectively putting the game out of reach.
Takeaways from the game emphasize that while Poole was a game-time decision, he started strong, scoring the first eight points for the Wizards. However, his performance dwindled after halftime, as he only managed five additional points. For the Bulls, the absence of Ayo Dosunmu, who has been sidelined for eight consecutive games due to a calf injury, was felt, but the team hopes to have him back soon during their upcoming homestand.
A pivotal moment in the match came when Washington closed the gap to 43-41 in the second quarter. However, Chicago’s Josh Giddey responded with two quick layups, igniting a 15-4 scoring run that restored their double-digit lead, which they maintained for the remainder of the game.
Statistically, the Bulls shined in the third quarter, hitting nine of their 16 attempts from beyond the arc, which ultimately helped solidify their victory. Vu?evi? was instrumental in this effort, sinking three of those three-pointers.
Looking ahead, the Wizards will host Oklahoma City on Sunday, while the Bulls are set to welcome the Sacramento Kings to their court.
