Nets struggles also continue as they are left at the bottom of the Eastern Conference.
Following confirmation that Derrick Rose would undergo surgery on his right knee on Monday, the Chicago Bulls’ tough week concluded with a heavy loss to the Los Angeles Clippers at the Staples Center on Sunday.
Given that their explosive point guard’s absence will undoubtedly effect their efficiency offensively, the most worrying aspect of the defeat for coach Tom Thibodeau will have been the defensive display, having conceded 121 points.
The Clippers were free-scoring through the opening three quarters, before the Bulls drastically fell off in the fourth after scoring just 9 points.
Chris Paul had another double-double with 16 points and 17 assists, while Jared Dudley had a game-high 21 points.
J.J. Redick also had an enjoyable night’s work with 19 points, while there wasn’t a single Clippers player to not score at some stage as Doc Rivers gave his entire roster a run-out.
In contrast, the Bulls were led by Luol Deng who had 22 points and 6 assists, and while Carlos Boozer and Mike Dunleavy provided some help, it was never enough to trouble the hosts as Chicago look as though they are set to face a long season ahead.
Meanwhile, things aren’t looking any better for the Brooklyn Nets who slumped to a 109-97 loss at home to the Detroit Pistons as injuries continue to leave Jason Kidd further under pressure.
The rookie coach was handed his fifth straight loss which leaves Brooklyn at 3-10 for the season with only the Milwaukee Bucks faring worse in the Eastern Conference.
In contrast, there were comfortable wins for the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference, with the duo beating the Utah Jazz and Sacramento Kings respectively.
Russell Westbrook was afforded the night off by the Thunder as they coasted to a 95-73 win, and despite the wait for Kobe Bryant continuing, Xavier Henry and Pau Gasol ensured that the Lakers move to 7-7 for the season.
Given the absence of their superstar guard, many had tipped the Lakers to struggle this year. However, coach Mike D’Antoni will be delighted with their steady start and will look forward to Bryant’s return which should give them the lift they need to make the post season.
NBA Results:
Detroit Pistons 109-97 Brooklyn Nets
Chicago Bulls 82-121 Los Angeles Clippers
Phoenix Suns 104-96 Orlando Magic
Utah Jazz 73-95 Oklahoma City Thunder
Sacramento Kings 86-100 Los Angeles Lakers
COMMENTS