No. 4: The Doug McDermott Game vs. Memphis
This is an interesting one. Usually when Michael Carter-Williams is the only starter to post a positive plus/minus for the game on the road against a playoff team, that is almost a guaranteed loss. (No offense, MCW.)
All U Can Heat
Even though Jimmy Butler was having an All-NBA year, he proved that he’s still human and can be subject to a less than stellar game every once in a while. He scored just 16 points on 6-of-14 shooting, which isn’t actually that bad, just isn’t the level Bulls fans have become accustomed to witnessing.
Wade sat out again for rest and Rondo was coming off the bench at this point in the season and struggled to make his impact felt on the court. He only scored four points to go along with five assists.
Oh yeah, and Mike Conley and Marc Gasol combined for a good 52 points.
So how does all of this add up to a Bulls victory?
Well, Doug McDermott finally had the breakout game that many Bulls fans were waiting for. McDermott scored 31 points off the bench to lead the game in scoring and also got to the free-throw line 11 times.
For a guy that has struggled with his confidence ever since he got drafted, leading his team to victory over a quality opponent was really nice to see.