Chicago-Oklahoma City: Rose, Salmons Pace Bulls Past Pesky Thunder

If there was any doubt as to who is the best rookie point guard, maybe even the top rookie overall, Derrick Rose erased that tonight.

The Memphis product and rookie phenom had an outstanding game for the Bulls, amassing 25 points, six rebounds, three assists, and a steal. After a shaky first half in which he only scored five points, Rose didn't miss a single shot in the second half, putting up 20 points.

Kevin Durant was the top performer for the Thunder, scoring 28 points and hauling in six rebounds. His teammate, rookie point guard Russell Westbrook, had six assists to go along with a respectable 15 points. 

Also in double figures for the Thunder were Jeff Green with 18, and Nick Collison with 12.

Both teams had impressive comebacks and runs, but the closest Oklahoma City got was 99-96. 

Chicago was on fire from the field, shooting 52.5 percent while only making three three-point shots.

Not to be outdone by Rose was former Sacramento King John Salmons, who scored 20 points in the winning effort.

Ben Gordon added 18 for the Bulls, and Tyrus Thomas had a double-double with 12 points and 11 assists, including four clutch free throws that eventually sealed the victory for the Bulls.

Recently acquired center Brad Miller once again proved his worth, scoring 14 points, hauling in six rebounds, and dishing out five assists. 

This was the third victory in a row for the Bulls, and they figure to have a tough test on Saturday when they face off against Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers.

You're currently logged into Facebook

Do you want to share your Bleacher Report activity on Facebook?