Josh Giddey recorded 25 points, 16 rebounds and six assists as the Chicago Bulls snapped a six-game losing streak with an emphatic 142-110 road victory over the tumbling Philadelphia 76ers on Monday night.
Kevin Huerter chipped in 23 points and Zach Collins notched 19 for Chicago, which shot splendidly despite playing without center Nikola Vucevic (calf). The Bulls made 50.6 percent (45 of 89) of their attempts from the field, including 18 of 40 from 3-point range, and knocked down 34 of 36 foul shots.
Philadelphia, which lost its eighth straight game, continued to play without star center Joel Embiid (knee) and could be nearing a decision connected to former league MVP’s long-term health. Kelly Oubre Jr. and Paul George led the Sixers with 19 points apiece.
The Bulls led 39-30 after a strong first quarter in which they registered nine assists on 11 field goals and also shot 13 of 14 from the foul line.
Oubre knocked down a 3-pointer early in the second quarter to get the Sixers within 39-32, but that’s basically where the highlights ended for the hosts.
Chicago rattled off 16 of the next 18 points to take control of the contest. Giddey scored six points early in that surge before Matas Buzelis made two free throws and a 3-pointer on back-to-back trips for the Bulls.
Philadelphia chipped away slightly, but Giddey scored seven quick points to send the lead north of 20 once again.
Giddey had a double-double in the first half alone — 17 points and 10 rebounds as well as five assists and three blocks — as Chicago went on to lead 75-58 at the break.
The third quarter turned the game into a rout, as the Bulls outscored the Sixers 40-18 in the period. Philadelphia shot just 4 of 18 from the floor in the third quarter, including 0 of 7 from 3-point range.
Collins’ free throws midway through the third brought Chicago’s lead to 30 for the first time. The Bulls went on to lead 115-76 heading into the fourth, and they cruised to the finish line.
