Chicago Bulls Roll Over Celtics; Take Commanding 2-0 Lead: Recap, Highlights and More

The Chicago Bulls just demolished the Boston Celtics to take control of the series, 2-0. Everyone contributed and the Bulls have to be feeling good heading back to Chicago.

Down 0-1 in the series, many expected the Boston Celtics to bounce back and play with a lot of energy on Tuesday night. The Chicago Bulls did the unexpected and just rolled them over.

Every time the Celtics got on even the slightest of a run, the Bulls countered with a big shot. There were solid numbers put up by all. Robin Lopez had 18 points, Paul Zipser had 16 points and Cristiano Felicio gave solid minutes. The backup point guard proved to be a liability today, but Rondo was spectacular. He tied the franchise record for assists in a playoff game with 14.

The fourth quarter was again the difference maker on Tuesday night. Butler and Wade both took control and stomped on the Celtics’ throats. It appears that Butler has figured out how to close games.

The first quarter was also vital. Chicago came out and got down 7-0 early but they stayed calm, fought back and ended up getting a lead at the end of the first. Rondo consistently making plays while driving to the basket was the spark that the team needed early.

Nikola Mirotic was better, but for a while. He had a good first quarter, putting up ten points on efficient shooting. After the first, though, he was irrelevant. At least he was able to help this team get going early on. He also hit a three in the second half that just felt like the nail in the coffin.

Overall, the Bulls played great. They have control of the series heading back home, and they are playing their best basketball of the season at the right time.

Highlights

Three Stars

Robin Lopez – 18 points and 8 rebounds

Lopez again proved to be a big factor tonight. He was huge on the boards, and he hit timely mid-range shots all night. Lopez could be the X-factor in this series.

Rajon Rondo – 11 points, 9 rebounds and 14 assists

Rondo might win MVP of the night. He was spectacular. Rajon was able to find teammates left and right, and he finished really well around the rim. Rondo also played incredible defense on Thomas throughout the night.

Jimmy Butler – 22 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists

Tonight was another night owned by Jimmy Butler. He shut down the Celtics on the defensive end, and he drew fouls and hit big shots down the stretch. Butler had a highlight block on IT in the 4th. The Bulls have been phenomenal in the 4th quarter this series, and Butler has been a big reason for that.

Next: How Bulls Should Attack Isaiah Thomas

Next Game

The Chicago Bulls and Boston Celtics will head to the United Center for Game 3 of this first-round series on Friday, April 21. Tipoff is at 6:00 pm CT and it will be televised live on ESPN.