Zach LaVine came alive in the fourth quarter, hitting six 3-pointers and scoring 20 of his 26 points in the final stretch to push the Chicago Bulls past the Detroit Pistons, 117-106. The game, tied at 95 with just under nine minutes left, quickly shifted when LaVine led a 13-2 run that gave the Bulls an 11-point cushion with under six minutes remaining.
Nikola Vucevic anchored the team with 29 points and 12 rebounds, while Coby White added 25. Despite Cade Cunningham’s 26 points and 10 assists for Detroit, and Malik Beasley’s 21-point effort, the Pistons couldn’t withstand Chicago’s long-range accuracy.
LaVine’s Hot Hand Proves Decisive
Zach LaVine has made a habit of tormenting the Pistons. In 28 career games, he’s averaged 21.7 points, including a 51-point explosion last season. Yet for three quarters, Detroit seemed to have his number, holding him to just seven points on 3-for-11 shooting. Everything changed in the final eight minutes.
LaVine re-entered the game with 8:46 left and immediately turned the tide. He hit five of his first six shots, all from beyond the arc, dismantling Detroit’s defensive schemes. His performance not only secured the win but also underscored his reputation as a clutch performer against Detroit.
Bulls Light It Up From Beyond the Arc
Chicago’s shooting from long range was the standout factor in this game. The Bulls made 23 of their 46 attempts from three, a blistering 50% success rate. Seven of those came in the fourth quarter alone, as the Pistons struggled to close out on shooters.
Vucevic, White, and LaVine led the charge, showcasing the depth of Chicago’s offensive options. The ability to space the floor and capitalize on open looks proved critical, especially as Detroit faltered late.
- Key Stats from the Bulls:
- 23-for-46 on three-pointers (50%)
- 7-for-15 from beyond the arc in the fourth quarter (47%)
- LaVine: 6 three-pointers in the final quarter
Pistons Struggle to Keep Pace Despite Strong Start
The Pistons began the game with energy and focus, keeping the score close through the first three quarters. Cunningham was sharp, orchestrating the offense with precision, while Beasley provided crucial scoring support. Detroit also dominated the offensive glass, grabbing 16 offensive rebounds to Chicago’s 10.
However, their inability to defend the perimeter proved costly. The Bulls’ shooters consistently found space, and Detroit’s 34% shooting from deep couldn’t match Chicago’s efficiency. Even with a strong performance on the boards and minimal turnovers, the Pistons lacked the firepower to close the gap.
A Turning Point in the Third Quarter
The game’s momentum shifted midway through the third quarter. Detroit trailed 80-75 but appeared distracted after not receiving a defensive foul call. That lapse allowed Chicago to capitalize with a quick sequence:
- Josh Giddey tipped in a missed shot.
- LaVine threw down an uncontested dunk.
- Vucevic drilled a three-pointer.
Suddenly, the Bulls had stretched their lead to 87-75, forcing Detroit into a defensive scramble that carried into the fourth quarter.
Bulls vs. Pistons: By the Numbers
A quick comparison highlights the key factors that shaped the outcome:
| 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) |
While Detroit had the edge in rebounding and ball control, Chicago’s shooting efficiency—particularly from three—proved decisive.
What This Means for Both Teams
For the Bulls, this win is a testament to their ability to respond under pressure. Vucevic’s steady hand, White’s scoring burst, and LaVine’s late-game heroics all highlight a team capable of grinding out wins even when the odds appear against them. Consistency, particularly in shooting, will be key as they move forward.
The Pistons, meanwhile, can take some positives despite the loss. Their rebounding and low turnover count are encouraging signs, but defensive lapses and inconsistent shooting continue to plague them. Detroit has shown flashes of potential but will need to find answers on both ends of the floor to turn close games into wins.
