Just before game-time it was announced that Jimmy Butler would not start versus the Bucks.  Butler had swelling in his left knee and team doctors ruled him out.

The Chicago Bulls shook off that news and played an aggressive game and beat Milwaukee 100-90 for its second straight win.

Six Bulls scored in double-figures. Pau Gasol had his ninth career triple-double.

“I love moving the ball. I love finding my open teammates,” said Gasol. “I love making the right plays.”

Gasol had 12 points, 17 boards, and 13 assists and his second triple-double in recent games.

Derrick Rose scored 22 points on a good night. E’twaun Moore had 16 in another strong effort at SG and Mike Dunleavy made four of six three-ball attempts and had 18 points. It was enough as Chicago earned its 32nd win of the season. Taj Gibson scored 12 and had 10 rebounds, and Niko Mirotic scored 14 points off the bench. The Bulls shot 50% from the floor and that carried them past the Bucks.

Chicago had a season high 35 assists vs. the Bucks. Mike Dunleavy was aware of the well executed floor game.

“We’ve got a good recipe and have a lot of assists,” Dunleavy said. “We’ve done that pretty well the last few weeks.”

Chicago also had 11 blocks in the game, a season high; Gasol had five blocks along Gibson getting three.

Jerryd Bayless scored 20 points for the Bucks.

Aaron Brooks and Bobby Portis left the game due to injuries. Brooks, a knee issue, and Portis was poked in the eye late in the third quarter.

It is always something with these Bulls. Hopefully Butler will return soon. Right now the Bulls need healthy players. It is extremely difficult to make a push for the playoffs with injured players.  This team has had an up and down season. Some days they play well, others not so well.

It would be good to see them play with a healthy roster.