Deng Solid in Loss

Though it occurred in a 97-90 loss to the Bucks, Luol Deng’s highest scoring night of the season should encourage Bulls fans.  The Chicago forward scored 21 points on an ultra-efficient 9 of 14 shooting effort.  The point total is more than Deng had scored in the team’s previous three games combined.  Chicago fans are surely hoping that this signals the turning of a corner for Deng.  Deng recently returned to action after missing multiple games with an injury and perhaps now he’s fully healthy.  If it’s the injury that’s been hampering his performance this season, there’s no reason to think that he can’t return to 2006 form.  The team made Deng its highest paid player this offseason by awarding him with a contract in the realm of $70 million.

Ben Gordon and Derrick Rose had solid games last night as well.  Gordon chipped in 22 points while adding 6 rebounds and 4 assists.  Rose added 18 points and 9 assists, but it wasn’t enough to take home the victory.  Charlie Villanueva and Richard Jefferson both eclipsed 20 points, proving too much for Chicago to handle.  The Bulls still need more consistent contributions from the supporting cast, but Deng’s game last night could signal a move in the right direction for the team.

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