Bulls Upset Nuggets in Denver
The Chicago Bulls pulled off a surprising 129-119 victory over the Denver Nuggets on Monday night, despite playing without their star player Nikola Jokic. Coby White led the Bulls with an impressive 37 points, while Josh Giddey contributed a solid 26 points and nine assists. This win extends the Bulls' recent hot streak, bringing their record to eight wins in their last ten games.
A Close Contest
The game remained neck and neck until the fourth quarter, when the Bulls unleashed a decisive 17-4 run to take control. While Jamal Murray (28 points) and Peyton Watson (career-high 24 points) fought valiantly for the Nuggets, Russell Westbrook's missed three-pointer with just over a minute left sealed the deal for Chicago.
Jokic's Absence and Nuggets' Struggles
The Nuggets’ struggles were largely attributed to the absence of Nikola Jokic (left ankle injury) and Aaron Gordon (right calf injury management). DeAndre Jordan, thrust back into the starting lineup, managed 17 rebounds, highlighting the team's need for their injured stars' return. The loss marks the Nuggets' second straight defeat on the second night of back-to-back games—a trend they need to address.
Bulls' Playoff Push
This victory significantly boosts the Bulls’ chances of securing a home game in the Eastern Conference play-in tournament. With four of their next five games at home, they are well-positioned to capitalize on this momentum. Giddey's continued strong performance, coupled with White's scoring prowess, makes them a team to watch in the playoff race.
What's Next?
The Bulls face the Los Angeles Lakers next, while the Nuggets host the Milwaukee Bucks. Both games promise exciting matchups and will be crucial for each team's playoff aspirations. Will the Bulls continue their winning streak? Can the Nuggets overcome Jokic’s absence and bounce back? Only time will tell.