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Rockets Launch Past Bulls, 117-114
Photo: Erik Williams-Imagn Images

The Chicago Bulls lost their opening game of a six-game road trip against the Houston Rockets, 117-114. The Bulls were without promising young guard Josh Giddey, while the Rockets were without Amen Thompson and Tari Eason. In Giddey’s absence, Tre Jones joined Coby White in the starting backcourt, and together they combined for 42 points, 10 assists, and nine rebounds. The game featured a continuation of both teams’ historically physical rivalry, with the lead changing hands 16 times.

The game got off to a strong start for the Bulls, as Matas Buzelis sank back-to-back three-pointers, helping the team shoot 58.3% from beyond the arc in the first quarter. Meanwhile, the Rockets’ young stars, Alperen Sengun and Jalen Green, struggled, hitting just three of nine field-goal attempts. As a result, the Bulls finished the quarter with a seven-point lead.

However, the Rockets fought back in the second quarter. Veteran Fred VanVleet took charge, scoring 18 points and hitting a buzzer-beater three-pointer at the end of the quarter. Although the Bulls outscored the Rockets in this period, they struggled from beyond the arc, making only one of their eight attempts.

In the second half, both teams continued to struggle with their shooting. Neither team shot better than 35% from the field or 20% from three-point range.

At the 5:52 mark of the fourth quarter, Jalen Green seized control of the game with a pull-up three-pointer, giving the Rockets the lead. Shortly thereafter, Green extended the lead with another basket. The Bulls attempted to rally back with a crucial shot from Nikola Vucevic and a game plan against Steven Adams, but ultimately it wasn’t enough.

What's On Tap Next?

The Chicago Bulls continue their six-game road trip to Utah to face the underwhelming Jazz. Tip-off is at 8 pm CT and will air on Chicago Sports Network (CHSN). 

This article first appeared on On Tap Sports Net and was syndicated with permission.

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