Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland was fully packed on Tuesday night with more than 20,000 hyped fans. The Cleveland Cavaliers hosted the Chicago Bulls, looking to win their third game of the season. The Bulls, on the other hand, entered Tuesday's matchup without a win so far in the season. The home team was playing without several key players, including Isaiah Thomas and Derrick Rose. The Bulls were also shorthanded in this one, as they were without the services of Nikola Mirotic, Bobby Portis, Zach LaVine and Kris Dunn.
LeBron with another great performance
Even though the Cavaliers were the heavy favorites to win on Tuesday, the Bulls opened up the game with a great first quarter. They outscored Cleveland 38-28 in the opening period of the game. Midway through the second quarter, Chicago was still in front 52-47 and at halftime, the Bulls led 68-65. The Cavaliers regained the lead early in the third quarter at 77-72, as they went on to outscore the Bulls 26-24 in the period. But, heading into the final period of the game, Chicago held a 92-91 lead. The Cavs turned the game around in the fourth quarter, holding the Bulls to just 20 points in the final 12 minutes of the game. The Cavaliers outscored Chicago 28-20 in the final quarter and celebrated a 119-112 victory.
LeBron James was once again the focal point for the Cavaliers on Tuesday night. James played 37 minutes against the Bulls and finished the game with 34 points and 13 assists. He shot 13-of-20 from the field, including 4-of-6 from the three-point line. Kevin Love added 20 points and 12 rebounds for the home team, while Jeff Green contributed with 16 points off the bench.
For the Bulls, Justin Holiday was the leading scorer with 25 points. Holiday also added four rebounds. Lauri Markkanen scored 19 points and grabbed eight rebounds for Chicago.
Knicks lose again
The Boston Celtics faced the New York Knicks on Tuesday night looking to get their second win of the season. They outscored the Knicks 30-17 in the first quarter of the game, and never looked back after that.
Boston led 54-33 at halftime and it was apparent that a new blowout is in store for the Knicks. Heading into the final period of the game, the Celtics held a 77-60 lead. In the end, it was a convincing win for the home squad, as the Celtics celebrated a 110-89 victory. The Knicks have yet to win a game this season.
Jaylen Brown led the home team in scoring in this one, as he finished with 23 points and four rebounds. Jayson Tatum added 22 points, while Kyrie Irving contributed with 20 points and seven assists for the Celtics.
For the Knicks, it was Enes Kanter with 16 points and 19 rebounds who led the way. Courtney Lee added 13 points and three assists.