CHICAGO -- Doug McDermott and Jimmy Butler combined for 46 points to lead the Chicago Bulls over the Milwaukee Bucks, 105-95, Tuesday night at the United Center.
Butler, an All-Star, contributed 23 points on 7 for 12 shooting from the field. He also dished a team-high 6 assists in 25 minutes of play.
Rookie Bobby Portis struggled offensively in his first NBA game, missing 10 of his 12 shots, but he made his presence felt with 14 boards.Nikola Mirotic also played well, scoring 18 points and grabbing 8 rebounds to help the Bulls rebounding wars, 59-42.
McDermott was held scoreless in the first half, going 0 for 5, but he quickly ignited in the second half to finish the night with 23 points, knocking down 5 from behind the arc.
With Mike Dunleavy out due to injury, McDermott could see a lot of playing time in the small forward slot.
Asked if he see?s McDermott becoming a regular contributor, Butler said ?Oh yeah, for sure. It?s all about confidence. He can definitely shoot the hell out the ball. With Doug, the main thing is his confidence.?
The Bucks stayed competitive despite being out-rebounded, but Chicago went on an 11-4 run in the end of the third quarter to pull away and cruise to win the game.
Milwaukee?s own rookie Rashad Vaughn had an impressive showing, scoring 20 points, hitting 8 of his 12 attempts. Newly acquired big man Greg Monroe had a very quiet game, scoring only 6 points.
Center Miles Plumlee led Milwaukee?s second unit with 12 points, 8 of which came from the charity stripe. Giannis Antetokounmpo, one of Milwaukee?s top offensive options, was also held to 6 points, but managed to contribute a solid 7 boards in 17 minutes of action.
Mike Dunleavy, Pau Gasol, Derrick Rose, Kirk Hinrich, and Taj Gibson were out for the Bulls while Jabari Parker and Tyler Ennis were all inactive for the Bucks. (KG)
Photo: Jimmy Butler squares up for a wide open jumper, finishing with 23 points to help the Bulls slow down the Milwaukee Bucks, 105-95, Tuesday night at the United Center.
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