NBA Recap: Washington Wizards Crush Chicago Bulls 102-88
Nene Hilario recorded 19 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists while John Wall delivered 19 points and 7 assists as the Washington Wizards blew by the Chicago Bulls, 102-88, on Tuesday at United Center in Chicago, Illinois.
The Wizards really want to make it in the postseason this season, and there's no better way to show it than to beat a veteran postseason team like the Bulls.
Despite the absence of Derrick Rose and the shocking trade of Luol Deng, the Bulls managed to stay in the playoff picture because of their experience and a handful of solid players stepping up when needed.
Noah, who has been a subject of trade rumours, has been doing well as of late as the team's leading rebounder. On Tuesday, Noah racked up 16 boards with 8 points for the Bulls. Jimmy Butler and Tony Snell contributed 12 points each, but the Bulls just could not stop Wall and Nene.
The Wizards also got great boost from Trevor Ariza (16 points), Martell Webster (12 points) and Garrett Temple (10 points), while Marcin Gortat did a pretty good job manning the middle. He had 7 points and 11 boards in 36 minutes of action.
The Wizards improved to a 17-19 record, the same slate the Bulls currently have.
ESPN Stats Info: Bulls vs. Wizards
MVP: John Wall didn't have the most impressive stat line of the night, but Washington's win came on the strength of early offense, before Chicago's defense was set. And Wall's pushing the ball put them in that position.
X factor: Nene was tied for the game-high with 19 points, but it was his work from the elbow that most stood out for the Wizards. His ability to make the extra pass or knock down a jumper often froze the Bulls' defense.