K.C. Johnson @KCJHoop Starters out so Butler will fail to reach double figures for just the second time this season.
Chuck Garfien @ChuckGarfien Jimmy Butler and Derrick Rose go a combined 5 for 27 (0 for 8 from distance) with 7 turnovers and 3 free throw attempts.
Tim Bontemps @TimBontemps Bunch of fans started yelling, "This is Bulls Nation!" at Jarrett Jack. Jack appeared to respond with, "So?"
Nick Friedell @NickFriedell Derrick Rose finishes the night going 2-for-15 from the field. He did not play in the fourth quarter.
Terrible game, but I actually liked how Thibs coached at the end. The 4th quarter was the perfect time to try out a funky lineup that you normally can't risk in most games. It was also a good chance to allow Tony to get some precious usage. The team could use a confident Tony Snell. At least we can take pleasure in the moral victory of Tony breaking his scoreless streak.
This kind of game happens from time to time. When Dunleavy is looking like the fastest, most engaged player on the floor, you are in trouble. Hopefully the kinks are out for New Years Day and another streak can start. Games like this are a reminder of how the "72" that hangs from the United Center rafters is such a remarkable accomplishments. Its hard to not take some nights off in an 82 game grind.
I'm somewhat pleased with the result. I think I'm of the opinion that most teams burn out under pressure when they see too much success early. Like, I think Golden State is going to be worn out by the playoffs. A couple more losses might help the Bulls care less about regular season games, like where they were at earlier this season. I'm not a huge fan of the Bulls being the IT team, like they were anointed by many this past weekend. I dug the crap out of the Mirotic-Noah-Gasol lineup toward the end. I thought Mirotic got caught in no man's land a lot playing the three against the Pelicans. But against the Nets, he was helping at the rim and on the boards and still covering his man out to the three point line, even if it came during what was essentially garbage time. I think Thibs could have played Mirotic at the 3 against Chris Copeland in the Pacers game too. That guy doesn't have the type of handle that you would worry about in matchup scenarios. On to the next one. Happy and safe New Years everyone.
