In Philadelphia, the Chicago Bulls snapped a six-game losing streak by dominating the Philadelphia 76ers with a score of 142-110 on Monday night. Josh Giddey was instrumental in this victory, contributing significantly with 25 points, 16 rebounds, and six assists. Chicago gained a decisive lead in the fourth quarter, extending their advantage to as much as 50 points and handing Philadelphia their eighth consecutive loss.
Kevin Huerter also played a crucial role by scoring 23 points, while Zach Collins added 19 points, and Matas Buzelis chipped in with 17 points. This victory was especially significant for the Bulls, who came into the game having lost 11 of their previous 15 games and currently occupy the 10th and final play-in tournament spot in the Eastern Conference. Meanwhile, the 76ers find themselves in the 12th position, trailing by 2.5 games.
Philadelphia struggled to keep pace despite the efforts of Paul George and Kelly Oubre Jr., both scoring 19 points each, and Tyrese Maxey contributing 13 points. The defeat marks the 76ers’ 10th loss in their last 11 games.
The Bulls showcased strong team performance, setting season-highs for both first-half points at 75 and total game points. Lonzo Ball was briefly part of the action, scoring six points in eight minutes before leaving due to a head laceration. Additionally, forward Nik Vucevic was unable to participate due to left calf tightness.
The 76ers faced the challenge of playing without their star player Joel Embiid, who was having his troublesome left knee examined. Tyrese Maxey managed to play despite dealing with a right finger injury. Their situation worsened when Guerschon Yabusele had to leave the game early in the third quarter after taking a hit to the face, and Quentin Grimes also exited with knee soreness.
An important moment in the game came when the Bulls successfully hit three out of their first four 3-point attempts, establishing a 21-12 lead and shooting 52% from the field in the first half.
Slow starts have been a significant issue for the 76ers, evident in their recent games where they conceded 40 points in the first quarter against Brooklyn and 72 in the first half to Boston. On Monday, their defense again struggled, allowing 39 points in the opening quarter.
Looking ahead, both teams prepare for Wednesday’s matchups. The Philadelphia 76ers are set to visit the New York Knicks, while the Chicago Bulls will host the Los Angeles Clippers.
