The Chicago Bulls handed the Denver Nuggets their second consecutive loss with a 129-121 victory on Monday night, improving to 20-27 for the season. Chicago’s balanced offense and timely defense overcame Nikola Jokic’s latest triple-double effort, marking the Bulls’ second win in their last nine games.
Nikola Vucevic anchored the Bulls with 20 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists, while Zach LaVine added 21 points. Lonzo Ball contributed 18 points, and Ayo Dosunmu chipped in 17. Chicago also benefited from a strong bench performance, outscoring Denver’s reserves 41-10, led by Dalen Terry’s 13 points and Patrick Williams’ 11.
The Bulls shot an impressive 45.3% from beyond the arc, draining 24 of their 53 three-point attempts. Their perimeter success helped counter Denver’s struggles from long range, as the Nuggets connected on just 6 of 27 attempts (22.2%).
Jokic delivered his sixth triple-double in the last seven games with 33 points, 14 assists, and 12 rebounds. The three-time MVP now has an NBA-best 21 triple-doubles this season. Christian Braun stepped up with 28 points, while Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. each scored 18. Despite their efforts, Denver fell to 28-18.
Chicago surged ahead with a 13-0 run early in the fourth quarter, turning a one-point deficit into a 108-96 advantage.
Denver’s inability to capitalize on open looks from deep was a major factor in their loss. Their starting lineup shot 52% from the field, but the lack of bench production and three-point efficiency ultimately hurt them.
Josh Giddey provided Chicago with a steady playmaking presence, recording 12 points and 10 assists. The Bulls’ depth and unselfish play were reflected in their 35 total assists on 49 made field goals.
