Bulls-Cavs Game 3: The Non-Derrick Rose Notes

Apr 5, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) defends Chicago Bulls forward Nikola Mirotic (44) in the third quarter at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

Nikola Mirotic kept the Bulls in it early on

If it wasn’t for the return of Nikola Mirotic playing extended action in Game 3, Rose’s buzzer-beater doesn’t happen. Mirotic did what was asked of him, and then some.

In 22 minutes, Mirotic scored 12 points and pulled down eight rebounds in the win. His early scoring pop off the bench kept the Bulls close in the first half and his ability to knock down the outside shot opened lanes for Rose and Jimmy Butler to drive throughout the night.

I don’t think I need to tell you who had the highest plus-minus (+19) for the Bulls either.

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