Jan. 19--Playing their first game since losing Joakim Noah for four to six months to left shoulder surgery, the Bulls scored an impressive 111-101 victory over the Pistons at the Palace of Auburn Hills on Monday. Pau Gasol's 31 points and 12 rebounds led five Bulls in double figures. That included Derrick Rose's 20 points. Rose delivered two big baskets late.
Turning point
Gasol's 3-pointer capped a 10-1 run to push the Bulls ahead 98-88 just past midway through the fourth quarter.
Another turning point
Drummond fouled Gasol on a desperation 3-pointer as the shot clock neared expiration with 4:01 left. Despite Gasol shooting from well behind the arc, the Bulls converted the questionable call into three free throws for Gasol.
Tribune player of game
Gasol. He repeatedly buried jumpers at critical times and capped his virtuoso performance with a uncontested dunk down the lane in the final minute.
Key number
28. The Bulls' ball movement proved sublime, posting 28 assists on 44 field goals.
Quote
"Pau was unbelievable all game. And I thought our guys did a great job setting screens and finding him." -- Bulls coach Fred Hoiberg
Up next
Vs. Warriors, 7 p.m. Wednesday; CSN, ESPN, WMVP-AM 1000.
