The Bulls refused to lose all that they gained during their 5 game winning streak, and were able to end a difficult three game slide tonight by defeating the Miami Heat 95-91. The Bulls were led to victory by Luol Deng and Derrick Rose who combined for 49 points.

Dwyane Wade scored 20 for the Heat in a losing effort, while Jermaine O'Neal led the team with 24. Watching this game one has to wonder what incentive Wade has for staying in Miami after this season. His team is filled with guys who hardly pass as NBA players, and when Wade left the game it was downright ugly. No star player should have to play around players that bad.

The Bulls were able to take advantage of those bad players and dominate some key match-ups. Rafer Alston wasn't able to contain Derrick Rose, and Rose was routinely getting to the hoop, which meant he got to the free throw line a ton. His eight attempts matched Wade's free throws, perhaps Derrick is starting to get some "star calls" as well.

With Joakim Noah and Tyrus Thomas tonight (more on Tyrus in a moment) the Bulls needed their big men to step up big. Brad Miller and Chris Richard rose to the occasion. Miller had 13 points and eight rebounds in 36 minutes (those are some old knees). Richard, who was signed to a 10-day contract while Noah is out, played 20 big minutes getting seven rebounds and saving a number of possession with his hustle. Taj Gibson also supplied his normal solid presence throughout the night.

All in all it was a good win for the Bulls who started the day with more distractions. I wrote earlier about Tyrus' suspension and guessed he had a run in with Vinny Del Negro, turns out I was right. The Tribune says Tyrus ripped into Vinny after not playing much against the Hawks. It's time for Tyrus and the Bulls to part ways, hopefully he can be included in any trade that involves either Kirk Hinrich and/or John Salmons.

Written by :

Justin Bridgman