Bulls Upset Celtics, 106-102, in Game 1

The Chicago Bulls defeated the host Boston Celtics, 106-102, in Game 1 of the
Eastern Conference first-round playoffs at TD Garden on Sunday. Boston had one
of the worst records ever for a number-one seed and games like this show that
they have a tough road ahead of them. Rebounding was the glaring difference in
the game, with Chicago winning that battle, 53-36. They also got some great
bench production, outscoring the Boston bench, 35-22. Free-throw shooting was
also key, with the Bulls hitting 20-of-23 from the charity stripe, while the
Celtics went just 14-of-19. It was a close game throughout, as there were 14
ties and 10 lead changes in total, with neither team leading by double-digits at
any point. The Bulls snuck into the playoffs thanks to their great rebounding
and that was the key in this victory. Jimmy Butler was the player of the game,
as he collected 30 points, nine rebounds and three assists. Bobby Portis was
huge off the bench, providing 19 points, nine rebounds, three assists and two
steals on 8-of-10 shooting. Robin Lopez recorded a double-double, totaling 14
points and 11 rebounds. Rajon Rondo accrued 12 points, seven rebounds and six
assists. Dwyane Wade contributed 11 points, five rebounds, six assists, two
steals and two blocks. The Celtics have been dominated on the boards all season
long and it was once again their downfall in this defeat. Isaiah Thomas carried
Boston, as he tallied 33 points, five rebounds and six assists. Al Horford
accumulated 19 points, seven rebounds and eight assists. Avery Bradley was the
only other Celtic in double figures, as he amassed 14 points, three rebounds,
two assists and three steals. Game 2 will be back in Boston on Tuesday.