CHICAGO--One night removed from their worst offensive performance of the season, the Chicago Bulls bounced back with a thrilling 109-106 victory over the Western Conference powerhouse Los Angeles Clippers, 109-106 at the United Center.
The victory marks the first time this season that the Bulls have beaten a team with a winning record as the Clippers are 20-8.
Los Angeles, however, did not play without a host of stars that included Kawhi Leonard, Lou Williams, and Patrick Beverly.
Undermanned, the Clippers got a boost from Montrezl Harrell who relentless attacked the hoop and scored 17 first-half points, which allowed L.A. to take a 15-point lead with five minutes left in the half. But the Bulls sliced the deficit to two at halftime and outscored the Clippers 54-49 at the turn to pull of the victory.
"We made big plays. I think that's what it comes down to," LaVine told reporters at his post-game press conference.
Lavine led the Bulls with a game-high 31 points on 11 of 21 shooting. Markkanen had a strong game with a season-high 17 rebounds and 13 points. Thaddeus Young finished with 17 points and Valentine had 16 points, including that late game-tying triple, while Kris Dunn finished with an impressive nine points, eight rebounds, three assists, three blocks and two steals.
Harrell finished with 30 points on 9 of 24 shooting for the Clippers while George poured in 27 points and six assists.
The Bulls improved to 10-18 and will embark on a four-game road trip beginning Monday night in Oklahoma City. The Clippers will return to the Staples Center on Tuesday night to host the Phoenix Suns.
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