The Chicago Bulls got out to a hot start in this potential Eastern Conference Finals preview, but LeBron James ultimately led the Cavaliers back to a 58-52 halftime lead.
Cleveland extended their lead to nine points after the 3rd quarter, but the Bulls made a game of it in the 4th.
They took a 90-89 lead with just over four minutes left, but the Cavs re-gained the lead until Kirk Heinrich took over for the Bulls down the stretch. He scored eight straight points in the last two minutes to force overtime for Chicago.
Cleveland took the early lead in the extra frame behind eight straight points from LeBron James, and didn't relinquish that lead as they held on for the victory.
Turning Point: Kyrie Irving converted on an and-one opportunity to tie the game at 98 with 27.9 seconds left in the fourth quarter to force overtime, and Cleveland was able to carry that momentum into overtime.
Key Stat: The Cavaliers grabbed 20 offensive rebounds in this game - 12 from Tristan Thompson - which gave them a multitude of second chance points. In a game this close, hustle points make all the difference, and they did tonight.
Cleveland MVP: LeBron James rebounded from his less-than-stellar performance in the Cavs season opener with a vintage LeBron game agains the Bulls. He finished with 36 points and eight rebounds, setting the pace for the Cavs.
Chicago MVP: For how good James was, Derrick Rose matched him every step of the way. He left the game in the third quarter, but finished with 20 points in 25 minutes and kept Chicago in the game in the first half when it looked like Cleveland would run away with the victory. Kirk Heinrich also shares the award with his outstanding play down the stretch that forced overtime.
What’s Next? Cleveland has three days off before starting a west coast road trip in Portland on Tuesday, November 4 while the Bulls face the Timberwolves in Minnesota tomorrow night.
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