DeMar DeRozan scored 27 points and dished out eight assists, while Alex Caruso contributed with 21 points, hitting a season-high seven 3-pointers, as the Chicago Bulls defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 109-101 on Sunday.
Nikola Vucevic posted 19 points and grabbed eight rebounds, Coby White added 17 points, and Ayo Dosunmu contributed 13 points for the Bulls, who shot impressively at 52.5% from the field, including an outstanding 58.6% from beyond the arc.
Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves with 22 points and 11 rebounds, but struggled with turnovers, committing six out of Minnesota’s 14 turnovers. Rudy Gobert contributed 19 points and 10 rebounds, Mike Conley finished with 19 points and seven assists, and Naz Reid chipped in 14 points for the Timberwolves, who were aiming to secure a playoff spot in the Western Conference.
“Chicago was really on fire tonight, but we need to improve our defense, especially in containing the ball and closing out with more urgency,” remarked Timberwolves coach Chris Finch. “We made some adjustments in the second half, but by then, Chicago had already gained confidence from their shots going in.”
Caruso’s impact extended beyond his shooting prowess. He also recorded five assists, five rebounds, and five steals, while effectively defending Edwards, who struggled to make any shots from beyond the arc.
“It’s incredible to have a teammate like Caruso,” praised DeRozan. “His performance tonight on both ends of the court truly showcased his greatness and winning mindset.”
Although the Bulls held a significant lead of up to 16 points in the third quarter, the Timberwolves fought back, taking a brief lead of 98-96 following Gobert’s 3-point play with 5:21 remaining. However, DeRozan responded with a crucial steal and layup, followed by a decisive 3-pointer, regaining the lead for the Bulls.
Caruso then sealed the victory with his seventh 3-pointer, and White extended the lead further with a fast-break score, securing the win for the Bulls with a 106-99 lead and just over two minutes remaining.
