DeMar DeRozan Leads Chicago Bulls to Seven Straight Wins with Buzzer-Beaters
Introduction
The Chicago Bulls’ shooting guard, DeMar DeRozan, has made a remarkable impact on the team, ending 2021 with a buzzer-beater victory and starting 2022 with another thrilling game-winning shot. In two consecutive games against the Indiana Pacers and Washington Wizards, DeRozan knocked down two clutch 3-pointers, extending the Bulls’ winning streak to an impressive seven games. This stellar performance has propelled the Bulls to the top spot in the Eastern Conference, surpassing the Brooklyn Nets. In this article, we will explore DeRozan’s game-winning heroics, the Bulls’ rise to the number one seed, the challenges faced by both teams due to COVID-19, and the odds of the Bulls and other contenders winning the 2022 NBA championship.
DeRozan’s Buzzer-Beater Victories
Buzzer-Beater #1 vs the Pacers
The Bulls ended 2021 on a high note when DeRozan delivered an electrifying 108-106 victory over the Indiana Pacers. With time expiring, DeRozan displayed incredible skill and composure by drilling a one-legged 3-pointer, securing a two-point win for the Bulls. Despite having an off night, shooting 8-for-24 from the floor, DeRozan’s unwavering focus on seizing the next opportunity paid off. Assistant coach Chris Fleming praised DeRozan’s calm demeanor and ability to stay engaged in the game, even during frustrating moments. This buzzer-beating shot marked the Bulls’ sixth consecutive victory, signaling their growing momentum and resilience.
Buzzer-Beater #2 vs the Wizards
Continuing their impressive form into the new year, the Bulls faced the Washington Wizards in a thrilling game on New Year’s Day. Once again, DeRozan stole the show with another stunning buzzer-beater. With the Bulls trailing 119-117, DeRozan executed a series of brilliant moves to fake out Bradley Beal and calmly sank a deep 3-pointer as the buzzer sounded. This clutch shot secured a narrow 120-119 victory for the Bulls, extending their winning streak to an impressive seven games. DeRozan’s remarkable performance left him in awe, even questioning if it was all a dream. Both DeRozan and his teammate Zach LaVine expressed gratitude for having such a talented player on their team, acknowledging DeRozan’s incredible contributions to their success.
The Bulls’ Ascendancy to the Eastern Conference’s Top Spot
The Chicago Bulls’ string of victories, fueled by DeRozan’s heroics, has propelled them to the number one seed in the Eastern Conference. With a record of 24-10, they surpassed the Brooklyn Nets, who had held the top spot for the majority of the season. The Milwaukee Bucks, the defending champions, are also in the midst of a winning streak, with six consecutive victories, but currently trail both the Bulls and Nets in the conference standings. Despite facing a significant COVID-19 outbreak that led to the postponement of several games, the Nets remain formidable contenders for the NBA championship, still favored by many analysts to take home the title. On the other hand, the Bulls, known for their iconic run during the Michael Jordan era, are aiming to secure their first championship since the late 1990s, but they face longer odds compared to the Nets and Bucks.
COVID-19 Challenges for the Bulls and Nets
Both the Chicago Bulls and the Brooklyn Nets have faced significant challenges due to COVID-19 outbreaks within their respective teams. The Nets recently experienced a massive outbreak, resulting in three of their games being postponed around the Christmas period. This disruption saw them lose their top spot in the Eastern Conference to the surging Bulls. Despite the setbacks, the Nets still possess a formidable lineup, boasting superstars such as Kevin Durant, James Harden, and Kyrie Irving. The Bulls also encountered their own COVID-19 outbreak in mid-December, with ten players sidelined, including key contributors Zach LaVine and DeRozan. Despite the adversity, the Bulls showcased their depth and resilience, continuing their winning streak and emerging as serious contenders in the East.
Odds and Favorites for the 2022 NBA Championship
According to DraftKings, the Brooklyn Nets remain the consensus favorites to win the 2022 NBA championship, despite their recent struggles and the emergence of the Chicago Bulls. The Nets currently possess +245 odds, indicating a strong chance of clinching the title. The Milwaukee Bucks, led by reigning MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, are not to be discounted either, with +750 odds to complete a repeat championship run. Meanwhile, the Bulls, with their recent surge up the standings and the heroics of DeMar DeRozan, are considered long shots with +3000 odds of winning their first title since the Michael Jordan era. However, as the season progresses and the playoff picture takes shape, anything can happen in the highly competitive world of professional basketball.
Conclusion
DeMar DeRozan’s back-to-back buzzer-beaters have propelled the Chicago Bulls to a remarkable seven-game winning streak and the top seed in the Eastern Conference. His clutch performances have not only showcased his remarkable skill and composure but also propelled the Bulls into serious contention for the NBA championship. Despite facing adversity in the form of COVID-19 outbreaks, both the Bulls and the Brooklyn Nets remain strong contenders as they navigate through the challenges that arise during the season. As the race for the championship intensifies, fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter of this thrilling NBA season.
FAQs
1. How many buzzer-beaters has DeMar DeRozan made this season?
DeMar DeRozan has made two buzzer-beaters in consecutive games, cementing his status as a clutch player for the Chicago Bulls.
2. Who are the favorites to win the 2022 NBA championship?
The Brooklyn Nets are currently favored to win the 2022 NBA championship, followed by the defending champions, the Milwaukee Bucks. The Chicago Bulls are considered long shots but have shown tremendous potential with their recent winning streak.
3. How did COVID-19 impact the Bulls and Nets?
Both teams faced COVID-19 outbreaks, resulting in game postponements and key players being sidelined. However, they have shown resilience and continue to compete at a high level.
4. Who are the top contenders in the Eastern Conference?
The Chicago Bulls, Brooklyn Nets, and Milwaukee Bucks are the top contenders in the Eastern Conference, with each team possessing talented rosters and aiming for a deep playoff run.
5. When is the next game for the Chicago Bulls?
The Chicago Bulls will face the Orlando Magic on Monday night in Chicago, providing them with a chance to extend their impressive winning streak to eight games. They will then have a rematch against the Washington Wizards on Wednesday.
