Zach LaVine delivered a stunning fourth-quarter performance, scoring 20 of his 26 points in the final frame to lead the Chicago Bulls to a 117-106 victory over the Detroit Pistons. The game was deadlocked before LaVine’s explosive scoring run, which included six three-pointers, broke the game open. Nikola Vucevic and Coby White also had big nights for the Bulls, combining for 54 points to counter a strong effort from Detroit’s Cade Cunningham.
LaVine’s Late Heroics Dismantle the Pistons
For three quarters, the Pistons’ defense seemed to have Zach LaVine figured out, holding him to just seven points. However, everything changed when he checked back into the game with under nine minutes remaining. The star guard immediately caught fire, transforming a tied game into a comfortable Bulls lead.
LaVine single-handedly orchestrated a 13-2 run that put the game out of reach. He hit five of his first six shots in the fourth quarter, all of them from beyond the arc. This clutch shooting display not only secured the win but also continued his career-long trend of having big games against Detroit, adding another chapter to his reputation as a “Piston killer.”
Bulls Win the Game from Beyond the Arc
While LaVine’s finish was the highlight, Chicago’s overall three-point shooting was the story of the game. The Bulls were incredibly efficient from long range, putting on a clinic that the Pistons’ defense simply could not contain.
The team’s offensive strategy revolved around spacing the floor, and it paid off handsomely. The Bulls made an incredible 23 of their 46 three-point attempts, a sizzling 50% success rate. This long-range accuracy was consistent throughout the game, with seven of those threes coming in the decisive fourth quarter alone. Key contributors to the shooting display included:
- Nikola Vucevic (29 points)
- Coby White (25 points)
- Zach LaVine (26 points)
This collective effort demonstrated the depth of Chicago’s shooting talent and was the primary factor in their offensive success.
Detroit’s Strong Effort Undone by Perimeter Defense
The Pistons fought hard for most of the contest, keeping the score tight through three quarters. Cade Cunningham was excellent, finishing with 26 points and 10 assists, while Malik Beasley chipped in with 21 points. Detroit also showed toughness on the glass, grabbing 16 offensive rebounds.
Despite these positives, their inability to defend the three-point line was their downfall. Chicago’s shooters consistently found open looks, and the Pistons could not keep pace with their own long-range shooting, converting on just 34% of their attempts from deep. Even with advantages in rebounding and a low turnover count, Detroit lacked the defensive stops needed to win. A critical lapse in the third quarter, following a no-call, allowed the Bulls to go on a quick 7-0 run, stretching a five-point lead to twelve and shifting the game’s momentum for good.
By the Numbers: How the Bulls Pulled Away
A look at the final box score shows exactly where the game was won and lost. While Detroit controlled the boards, Chicago’s superior shooting efficiency made all the difference.
| Category | Bulls | Pistons |
|---|---|---|
| Points | 117 | 106 |
| Three-Point Shooting | 23-46 (50%) | 11-32 (34%) |
| Offensive Rebounds | 10 | 16 |
| Turnovers | 9 | 9 |
| Top Scorer | Nikola Vucevic (29) | Cade Cunningham (26) |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many points did Zach LaVine score in the fourth quarter?
Zach LaVine had a massive fourth quarter, scoring 20 of his 26 total points in the final period. He also hit six three-pointers during that stretch to lead the Bulls to victory.
What was the main reason the Bulls won the game?
The Bulls’ primary advantage was their exceptional three-point shooting. They shot 50% from beyond the arc as a team, making 23 three-pointers, which the Pistons’ defense could not overcome.
Who was the top scorer for the Chicago Bulls?
Nikola Vucevic was the leading scorer for the Bulls. He had an impressive double-double with 29 points and 12 rebounds, providing a steady presence throughout the game.
Did any Pistons players have a good game?
Yes, Cade Cunningham had a strong performance for the Detroit Pistons, recording a double-double with 26 points and 10 assists. Malik Beasley also contributed significantly with 21 points.
