Bulls take to court for first home playoff game in 5 years
CHICAGO (CBS)-- The Chicago Bulls took on the Milwaukee Bucks for their first home playoff game at the United Center in five years Friday evening.
The Bulls have played two away games against the Bucks so far in the first round of the playoff series. Friday night was third overall game and it's bringing them back home to the United Center.
Ayo Dosunmu and Giannis Antetokounmpo were among the players getting some early pregame work. They were out here about two hours before tip.
Patrick Williams also on the court early. The second-year forward, who has battled injuries and at times being too tentative, stepped up in Game 2 with 10 points and nine boards - and the Bulls had hoped for a repeat in Game 3.
"Pat's been great. You know, everybody's going to have to chip in, and, you know, sometimes it's not even going to be you getting the rebound; you're going to have to box somebody out, let somebody else get in," said Bulls guard Zach LaVine. "I think that's the biggest thing."
"Some of these guys like Coby (White) and Patrick and Ayo – some of these guys that haven't played in these moments – it's really important for them," said Bulls Head Coach Billy Donovan. "So I thought (Williams) was more decisive in opportunities, which is what we needed him to be. And if he misses some shots, that's fine. But it helps take the burden off other guys, and we need other guys like Coby and Ayo, when they have opportunities, to be aggressive/"
Williams has done a pretty solid job guarding Antetokounmpo as well. The Bucks will need even more out of their star with Khris Middleton now out.
Middleton suffered an MCL sprain during the fourth quarter of Game 2 Wednesday, in what amounted to a big blow for the Bucks. He averages over 20 points a game and is a guy they count on for big shots.
The Bulls, of course, still have to keep up their high level of play, especially that defensive resurgence. And LaVine feels Middleton's pain - almost literally.
"You never want to see anybody get injured, first and foremost. You know, me obviously having a knee injury in my past – it's something you never want to see. So hopefully, you know, he can get back and get healthy. Regardless if we're playing, I'm always somebody that doesn't like seeing anybody get hurt," LaVine said.
Still, LaVine noted that the Bucks have played and won with men out and through other adversities, and they remain a formidable opponent with or without Middleton.
On Wednesday, the Bulls beat the Bucks 114-110, tying the series 1-1.
There will be extra service on the No.19 United Center Express after the game as there was before. There will also be extra service on the No. 50 Damen route.
Single tickets cost anywhere from $200 to $700.
The Bulls ended up losing the game Friday night 111-81, for their worst home playoff loss ever.
