Halftime stars, studs and duds: Butler keeps Bulls within striking distance

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Boston took a 58-52 lead into the half against Chicago, doing enough at both ends of the floor to keep a decent amount of distance between themselves and the Bulls.

The Celtics opened the game with a 15-7 run and pulled ahead by as many as 10 points. Former Celtic Rajon Rondo came off the bench and provided a spark for the Bulls, tallying six rebounds to go with five assists.

And then there was Jimmy Butler, a potential trade target of the Boston Celtics, who slowly worked his way into a solid first half performance offensively which was needed due to Dwyane Wade (illness) unable to play.

Here’s a look at the Stars, Studs and Duds of the first half of tonight’s game.

 

STARS

Isaiah Thomas

The Bulls, like most teams, were conscious of where Thomas was most of the first half. It didn’t matter. He still managed to score 15 points and dish out five assists.

Jimmy Butler

He did a lot of little things in the first half to keep the Bulls within striking distance in the first half with 15 points.

 

STUDS

Amir Johnson

He became one of Isaiah Thomas’ favorite targets from the outset, scoring all 10 of his first-half points in the first quarter.

Bobby Portis

He was one of the most consistent performers offensively for the Bulls, tallying 13 first-half points.

 

DUDS

Bulls’ 3-point shooting

We know they have been among the worst teams this season when it comes to 3-point shooting, but the first half was a bad showing even for them. The Bulls shot just 16.7 percent from 3-point range in the first half, missing 10 of their 12 attempts.

 

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