The Chicago Bulls defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 125-123 in Wednesday's preseason game at the United Center. In a game that was a screenwriter's dream, the Bulls and fans alike celebrated Lonzo Ball's long-awaited return to NBA action after last suiting up in January 2022.
The Bulls held a comfortable lead from midway in the second quarter until late in the third quarter. Minnesota then started a 13-0 run late in the third frame that carried over into the fourth quarter and shrunk the Bulls lead to 98-95 with 11:34 remaining on the clock.
With just over five minutes left to play, the Timberwolves finally took the lead at 111-110. A scoring duel ensued until an unlikely hero in Jevon Carter hit perhaps his most clutch three-point shot in a Bulls uniform to date, securing the lead and ultimately the win for the Bulls.
Lonzo Ball's Instant Impact
Lonzo Ball checked into an NBA game for the first time since 2022 at the 6:08 mark of the first quarter. Ball's return to the NBA hardwood was nothing short of spectacular in all facets of the game. His very first offensive possession was a smooth corner three-point make assisted by Nikola Vucevic.
Beyond his three-point shooting making an immediate return, Ball also regained his footing on the defensive end of the court blocking newly acquired Timberwolves forward Julius Randle.
Ball rounded out his return by putting on a cutting clinic after halftime, scoring four third-quarter points on cuts to the rim. Overall, Ball finished with 10 points and shot 2/4 from the three-point line.
Talen Horton-Tucker's Scene Stealing
Bulls training camp signing Talen Horton-Tucker once again delivered an award-winning preseason performance in heavy minutes (25:11). Horton-Tucker finished the game with 17 points, five assists, and four rebounds, shooting 40% on five three-point attempts. He's made a strong case for securing a permanent main roster spot when the Bulls conclude training camp.
Josh Giddey's Comic Relief
Josh Giddey's stat line against the Timberwolves is a head-scratching piece of data you laugh at and quickly move on from. The good: nine assists and three blocks. The bad: four points on 1/11 shooting from the field!
What's On Tap Next?
The Bulls play their final preseason game Friday when the Cleveland Cavaliers visit the United Center. Tip-off is at 7 p.m. CT and the game will air on CHSN.
