Bulls-Celtics: Salmons Key in Chicago's 127-121 Comeback Victory

With Kevin Garnett still mending an injury, the Boston Celtics have tried just about every trick they can to win games.  They are 4-6 in their last ten, the latest coming at the hands of the Chicago Bulls, who, incidentally are extremely hot at the United Center. 

The Bulls overcame a 13-point deficit last night against the Celtics to win their seventh straight home game.

Chicago currently holds a half-game lead over Central Division rival Milwaukee for the eighth and final playoff spot in the eastern conference, with only 14 games left to play.

The key component to the Bulls' current playoff run, as well as the victory Tuesday night has been the superb offensive play of recently acquired forward John Salmons.

Salmons tied a career high in points last night with 38, and is averaging over 24 points per contest in his last five games.

Paul Pierce dazzled the crowd in Chicago as well, scoring 37 points and hauling in seven rebounds for the Celtics. 

Still, it was not enough in the end, and the Chicago Bulls emerged victorious.

In the trade with Salmons also came Brad Miller, who contributed some very clutch plays for the Bulls last night, including a double-double.  Miller contributed 21 points, 14 rebounds, as well as five assists in the Bulls' winning effort.

Rookie point guard Derrick Rose added 11 points and eight assists, while Ben Gordon and Tyrus Thomas added 17 and 18 points respectively for the Bulls.

Chicago has played very well, especially at home, in the absence of star forward Luol Deng, and could be a fit for the Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference playoffs.

Who knows what will happen when Deng returns, but with the recent play of his replacement, John Salmons, I say why fix it if it's not broken?