CHICAGO -- Let's take a quick look at how the Chicago Bulls squeaked out an 82-81 win over the New York Knicks on Thursday night at United Center.
How it happened: Derrick Rose hit a game-winning floater with 5.7 seconds remaining to close out the game. Rose finished with 18 points and six assists. Luol Deng bounced back in this one after a rough opener in Miami, scoring 17 points and totaling six assists. Carmelo Anthony led the Knicks with 22 points, but it wasn't enough as he missed a shot at the buzzer.
What it means: The Bulls' offense is still struggling to find its rhythm, especially so Rose, who was just 7-for-23 from the field. But all those numbers flew out the window because of that last shot. Rose's ability to close out games was the thing the Bulls missed the most last season. His teammates believe he is going to make the final shot every time he puts one up, and this will only give coach Tom Thibodeau's team a bigger jolt of confidence as the season gets rolling.
Hits: After playing just 20 minutes against the Heat on Tuesday, Joakim Noah played 37 minutes and grabbed 15 rebounds.
Misses: Jimmy Butler, Noah and Rose combined to go 12-for-41 from the field.
Stat of the night: The Bulls had only two field goals in an 11-point fourth quarter -- both by Rose.
What's next: The Bulls face off against the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday night in Pennsylvania.
