The Chicago Bulls collapse in the second half as the Minnesota Timberwolves extend their lead to 41 points, beating the Bulls 136-101.

The Chicago Bulls collapsed against Anthony Edwards and the Minnesota Timberwolves, 136-101. This might be the unluckiest game of the season, as Zach Collins was ruled out before the game due to a toe sprain. Additionally, the starting backcourt of Coby White and Josh Giddey both exited the game mid-game due to injury. After both players’ departures, Naz Reid came alive and scored 33 points. It was evident that the injuries were very discouraging for the team moving forward in the game. 

However, to start the game, the Bulls did not back down to the Wolves. Both teams exchanged baskets throughout the first quarter, with contributions from players across their entire rosters. For the Bulls, Nikola Vucevic led the way with nine points against the former multi-time Defensive Player of the Year in Rudy Gobert. Even Patrick Williams had a good run, scoring four points in the quarter. Nevertheless, it was a pretty inefficient quarter for both clubs, as they shot below 45% from the field and below 35% from behind the arc.

Entering the second quarter, the Bulls began to build upon their lead with Vucevic and Jalen Smith setting the tone. At one point, Smith had an incredible sequence, blocking Jaden McDaniels at the rim and then hitting a quick corner three on the other end.

The Edwards’ Reality Check

However, to the Bulls’ surprise, fringe rotation player Bones Hyland responded with a quick 5-0 run by himself. Eventually, Anthony Edwards pulled the Wolves within striking distance of the Bulls’ lead as he scored 8 points in one minute. The Timberwolves established a five-point lead to finish the first half. 

Story continues below.

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Anthony Edwards did not stop in the second quarter, as he scored 12 points in the third quarter, leading the Wolves to outscore the Bulls by 13 points in the quarter. However, it wasn’t Edwards alone who took control, as Naz Reid began to knock down just about every shot he attempted. To add insult to injury, Josh Giddey exited the game just 30 seconds into the quarter. It was immediately announced that he was not returning. 

Despite the news, Minnesota was relentless. Chicago failed to find their groove, and the game was over in a flash. As stated previously, this is Chicago’s second loss in a row. Just as the Bulls began to reassemble, injuries to their two most promising players are just brutal news to the team and fanbase. Both players have been struggling with lower-leg injuries since the start of the season. It’s difficult to imagine the Bulls bouncing back, especially after that seven-game losing streak earlier in the year. 

What’s On Tap Next?

The Chicago Bulls stay home at the United Center to face off against Zion Williamson and the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday. The Bulls have yet to beat the Pelicans, so hopefully the team is motivated to compete. Tip-off is at 6:00 p.m. CT and will air on CHSN.