NBA MVP Derrick Rose has almost single-handedly carried the No. 1 seed Chicago Bulls throughout the Eastern Conference Playoff. But it was his supporting cast of teammates that led the honors in closing out the second round series against the tough Atlanta Hawks.
Veteran forward Carlos Boozier scored a double-double of 23 points and 10 rebounds as the Bulls blasted Atlanta, 93-73, on May 12 in Game 6 of the best-of-seven-series. Chicago now advances on to face the No. 2 seed Miami Heat for a shot at the NBA Title.
“It’s huge for us to get this far,” Rose said. “We’re happy to get the conference finals, but we’re not planning to stop right there.”
Rose followed Boozier with 19 points along with 12 assists; Loul Deng added 13 points and Joakim Noah scored 11 points for the Bulls.
But Rose said it was Chicago’s defense that really led to the blowout win.
Joe Johnson led ATL with only 19 points while Josh Smith followed with 18 points.
Game 1 of the Bulls vs. Heat series tips off on Sunday, May 15 at 8 p.m.