Overview
- The Chicago Bulls defeated the Portland Trail Blazers 118-113 on Friday, moving up to ninth place in the Eastern Conference standings.
- Coby White and Nikola Vucevic led the Bulls with 31 points each, with White also contributing key free throws in the final minute to secure the win.
- Josh Giddey recorded his sixth triple-double of the season, tallying 15 points, a career-high 19 rebounds, and 12 assists in a pivotal performance.
- The injury-depleted Trail Blazers, led by Deni Avdija's 37 points and 11 rebounds, remain 12th in the Western Conference and face an uphill battle to secure a play-in spot.
- The Bulls, already assured of a play-in berth, are focused on improving their seeding to enhance their chances of advancing beyond the tournament.