The Chicago Bulls stopped a two game slide Wednesday night when two Bulls found the range.  Mike Dunleavy scored 19 of his 21 points in the first half and emerging reserve F Nikola Mirotic scored 20 of 25 points in the second half.

That was enough to propel the Bulls to a 103-86 win at the United Center. When the Bulls score points, they can be tough to beat. Last evening, the Indiana Pacers were a bit out of sync on the offense and that helped the Bulls’ cause. When Dunleavy finds the range, Chicago plays better.  He finished with 5 treys.  Pau Gasol had 19 points and 12 rebounds, another double-double. Tony Snell scored 14 points and Aaron Brooks added 13 to “pace” the win.

The Bulls out-rebounded Indiana 52-38.  The team hit 41.5% from the field, which isn’t great, but it was enough.

Joakim Noah played another strong game at center.  He scored 6 points, agitated the Pacers, hauled in 13 boards, and had 7 assists. Mirotic also added 9 rebounds.

Coach Tom Thibodeau mentioned that some key players might be returning soon. Taj Gibson and Jimmy Butler have been practicing with the team. “They’re getting closer, they’re going through practice, full contact and everything,” said Thibs. “Hopefully it will be soon.”

That is good news for the Bulls. Chicago is now 41-28 for the season.

Meanwhile Mirotic is playing well in his first season.

“He’s a weapon off the bench,” said Pacers coach Frank Vogel.