Chicago Bulls: Keys To Victory For Game 5 Vs. Celtics

Apr 23, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Jimmy Butler (21) talks with Chicago Bulls head coach Fred Hoiberg during the second half in game four of the first round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /

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Apr 23, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; Boston Celtics forward Jonas Jerebko (8) shoots the ball as Chicago Bulls forward Bobby Portis (5) and guard Dwyane Wade (3) defend during the first half in game four of the first round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /

Avoid Sluggish Start

One of the reasons why the Bulls have struggled in the last two games has to do with poor starts. For example, in Game 3, the Celtics outscored the Bulls by a 33-15 margin.

While they managed to close within 44-41 at the break, the Celtics quickly pushed the lead back to 13 in the third period, en route to an easy 104-87 victory.

That same trend continued in Game 4 as the Bulls fell behind by 12 points (30-18) after the first 12 minutes. Although they managed to take a brief 65-63 lead in the third period, once again, the Celtics went on another impressive run (16-5) that all but put the game out of reach.

Simply put, the Bulls don’t have the kind of talent it takes to overcome a large deficit and still win the game. If they don’t find a way to turn things around in Game 5, they could be facing elimination when they return home for Game 6.

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