The Cleveland Cavs never trailed in Game 1. The Chicago Bulls never trailed in Game 2.
In Game 3, we finally got the back-and-forth battle that we expect from this marquee Eastern Conference matchup -- an absolute nail-biter filled with lead changes ultimately decided on one of the greatest buzzer beaters you will ever see in an NBA Playoffs game.
Derrick Rose got free on a miraculous inbounds play with three seconds left, draining a contested jumper from way downtown to send the United Center into delirium and hand Chicago a 2-1 series lead with a 99-96 victory.
In a game full of intrigue and big plays on both sides, it was Rose once again stepping back into the superstar role -- especially with Pau Gasol sidelined late by a hamstring injury -- which proved the difference in this Windy City classic.
Key Number: 18
The game was won for Chicago on the offensive boards, as they hauled down 18 for a +9 advantage over the Cavs. Those extra chances were critical for the Bulls in what was a tense, close knockdown, drag-out bar brawl all night long.
Chicago MVP:
Honorable mention goes to Taj Gibson for all the dirty work he did on the boards and on defense in part-time action, but this was Derrick Rose's night. Rose wasn't exactly efficient as a spot up shooter (10 of 26 altogether from the field), but his herky jerky races to the paint paid off for 30 points to go along with his 7 rebounds and 7 assists.
Then there was that buzzer beater. That INSANE buzzer beater.
Cleveland MVP:
LeBron James once again took the onus on himself to carry the Cavs both as a scorer and facilitator, posting a double-double with 27 points and 14 assists With Lebron in the mode he has been over the past two games, this series has classic written all over it.
What's Next?
The series remains in Chicago for Sunday's Game 4 matinee. Tipoff is slated for just after 2:30pm CST.
Back to the Cleveland Cavaliers Newsfeed