Nets vs Bulls Recap: Statement Made

With the blackout in the arena, Jerry Stackhouse singing the National Anthem, and Mikhail Prokhorov addressing the fans, the Brooklyn Nets couldn't have opened up this year's playoff game any better.

There were reports of Joakim Noah missing Game 1 but he decided to give it a go.

First Half: The building was full of energy and the players fed off the early Brooklyn chants. Brook Lopez was the aggressor, blocking shots and finishing over everyone. Joakim Noah was hurting and it was clearly seen but he still was that annoying presence. His partner in the backcourt Carlos Boozer, scored a nice 6 points and kept the Nets honest on defense. But Deron Williams and Lopez were able to get what they desired in that first quarter. They combined for 21 points.

Joe Johnson scored his first two shots in the second but was taken out for Keith Bogans. Nate Robinson and   C.J. Watson battled but the Nets had more help. The Nets also got Taj Gibson in foul trouble which was a key factor in the game. Lopez and Williams continued to dominate and just played off each other. They were able to push the lead up to 25 and shot 75% from the field at one point . Everything was going there way and they were able to live in the paint with 40 points to the Bulls 8. Williams and Lopez combined for 34 points The Chicago Bulls, left off with 35.

Second Half : The Nets picked up where they left off with a made basket in the paint by Lopez. Gerald Wallace even hit a three and followed with a strong layup. The crowd chanted his name immediately. Andray Blatche contributed with two consecutive shots and so did Joe Johnson. On the Bulls end, Carlos Boozer was the only consistent player scoring wise.

The Bulls did make a little run early in the fourth quarter and cut the lead to 20 but there was always an answer. Joe Johnson and Deron Williams put the finishing touches on the game with two consecutive three pointers. Robinson, Jimmy Butler and Boozer were the Bulls only help and Noah only played 13 minutes.
Brooklyn established a comfortable lead and they were never threatened and the big three combined for 59 points. Gerald Wallace played an excellent game compared to his previous, scoring 14 points and blocking 2 shots. This game was a statement delivered.

Box Score

Final Score: 106-89 Nets!
Most Disappointing Stat of The Game: Jerry Stackhouse with three airballs and a turnover.
Most Promising Stat of The Game: 56 Points in the paint
Scariest Moment of The Game: Wallace crashing into the camera men.
Best Moment of The Game: Gerald Wallace took the ball away from Jimmy Butler in mid air.


Follow @NetsTakeOver