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Bulls Late-Game Heroics Eclipsed in Phoenix, Suns defeat Bulls 127-121
Photo: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

On Wednesday, the Chicago Bulls began their back-to-back series against the Phoenix Suns. Bulls guard Josh Giddey returned to action after missing  two games due to injury and delivered an impressive performance, recording 22 points, seven rebounds, six assists, two steals, and one block.

Additionally, Josh Giddey shed his turnover reputation by recording just one turnover for the entire game. Despite Giddey's efforts, the Bulls had no answer for the Phoenix Suns after their first two offensive possessions, which showcased well-coordinated basketball. Ultimately, the Bulls were no match for the Suns, who defeated Chicago 127-121.

Bulls' First Half Butter Fingers

In stark contrast to the Bulls' first two offensive possessions, the majority of their offense sputtered from possession to possession in the first half. The Bulls surrendered the lead at the 9:40 mark of the first quarter and never regained it during the game.

Turnovers plagued the Bulls' first half, earning nine turnovers.  The Bulls would go on to log 13 total turnovers for the game, which the Suns capitalized upon with 23 points scored off turnovers in the game.

Kevin Durant Burned Bright

Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant, a future Hall of Famer, was an efficient force throughout the game, shooting 8 of 15 (53.3%) from the field and converting 7 of 8 free throw attempts to finish with 26 points. He also contributed four rebounds and eight assists.

Late Bulls Run Charged to No Effect

Moral victories rarely count for much. To the Bulls' credit, they didn't give up in the fourth quarter. Coby White, Nikola Vucevic, and Josh Giddey combined for an 8-0 scoring run that shrank the Bulls' deficit to four points (121-117) with 27 seconds remaining in regulation.

However, despite that run, Suns guard Devin Booker scored the team's final four points to secure a 127-121 victory over the Kings when the fourth quarter ended.

What's On Tap Next?

On Thursday, the Bulls play the second of their road back-to-back in Sacramento against the Kings. The Kings notably are headlined by former Bulls Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan.

Tip-off is scheduled for 9 p.m. CT and will be aired on the Chicago Sports Network (CHSN).

This article first appeared on On Tap Sports Net and was syndicated with permission.

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