The Bulls have lost eight straight, but they showed late fight against the Lakers last night.
Or maybe more accurately, Lakers fans.
Fans at Lakers games receive free tacos if the Lakers hold the opponent under 100 points. With five minutes left, the Lakers led Chicago 92-76. Tacos appeared imminent.
Then, the Bulls went on a run. It was probably initially about trying to win the game. Chicago even cut its deficit to just five points with 35 seconds left.
But, by the end, it appeared to be about taco-blocking.
While coming the back, the Bulls kept fouling the Lakers, increasing the number of possessions – and therefore points – in the game. The taco race became tight.
Chicago had 98 points when Jabari Parker stepped to the line for two free throws with 21 seconds left. He missed the first then intentionally missed the second, allowing Lakers fans a sigh of relief.
Down eight with 19 seconds left, the Bulls intentionally fouled. After the Los Angeles free throws, Chicago essentially had one more chance to prevent tacos.
The Lakers’ defense tightened, obviously aware of the stakes. Shaquille Harrison missed a 3-pointer, but after an offensive rebound, got the ball back and drew a foul on a 3-pointer. He made his first two free throws to send Los Angeles fans home without free tacos, though at least their team won, 107-100.
What a wild run, especially by a team without much scoring punch.
Here are the Bulls’ points per 48 minutes by segment:
- Season: 100
- Under Jim Boylen: 97
- First 43 minutes against Lakers: 85
- Final five minutes against Lakers: 230
