Boston Celtics' third-quarter scoring binge made the difference in the Chicago Bulls' latest loss

"In the third quarter, when we weren't scoring, they took their intensity up to a different level."

© Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

For a brief moment, it appeared that the Chicago Bulls had what it takes to take down the best team in the NBA, the Boston Celtics, as they held a 62-59 at halftime in their game on Thursday night. However, it was all a mirage as the Celtics brought the Bulls back to reality with a dominant third-quarter performance, outscoring them 37-21 and ultimately winning the game 129-112.

Showed the Bulls what they were made of

According to Bulls coach Billy Donovan, there are many reasons why the Celtics are considered a prime title contender this season. Boston starts four All-Stars, with the other starter arguably deserving of an All-Star slot this season. And then, there’s the three-point shooting; the Celtics take and make the most three-pointers in the league this season, and they showcased that ability versus the Bulls.

“There are teams that have championship aspirations — clearly, they’re one of them,” Donovan said.

“In the third quarter, when we weren’t scoring, they took their intensity up to a different level.”

Jaylen Brown with the chase down swat 🚫‼️ pic.twitter.com/j5dl3MT9vy

— Celtics on NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSCeltics) February 23, 2024

Third quarter drought

Against a team as potent as the Celtics, you blink, and they're up by double digits. That's precisely what happened to the Bulls in their matchup against Boston. The Celtics showcased their offensive firepower, scoring 10 unanswered points in the third, and never looked back. On the other end, Chicago bled for points in that stretch, finishing only 9-of-24 from the field.

When the dust settled, the Celtics had established a 13-point cushion and were never threatened in the fourth.

On to the next one. pic.twitter.com/8kTXWyqSTe

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) February 23, 2024

Chicago Bulls' big guns fall silent as Boston Celtics triumph, 129-112