Pau Gasol, the new forward for the Chicago Bulls spoke about the importance of protecting home-court after the recent loss to the Golden State Warriors.  Tonight, against the undermanned Brooklyn Nets they did.

Playing without C Brooks Lopez, and reliable scorer, Joe Johnson, the Nets ran out of gas in the second half only shooting 33% from the field.  Chicago, however had 6 players score in double figures, led by Derrick Rose’s 23 points.  Jimmy Butler had 18 for the Bulls and Pau Gasol continued his sold play with another double-double, scoring 16 points and hauling in 16 rebounds.

Joakim Noah was sidelined with an ankle injury and F Taj Gibson filled in his place. Gibson had a good game scoring 11 points,with 10 boards. F Mike Dunleavy added to the Bulls’ win scoring 16 points.

As the game progressed, Chicago hit their shots, while the Nets mis-fired. Chicago shot 46.8% from the floor and out-rebounded the Nets 57-44. At one point in the 4th quarter, Chicago outscored the Nets, 17-5.  It was just what the doctor ordered, a convincing home victory.  The Bulls won their third home game of the season.