Bulls-Heat: Chicago Takes Over Seventh Spot in East after Dominating Miami

After a convincing 106-87 victory over the Miami Heat, the Chicago Bulls have vaulted into the seventh spot in the Eastern Conference, surpassing the Detroit Pistons.

Tyrus Thomas had 15 points and 13 rebounds, increasing his double-double total on the season to 18.

Dwyane Wade was up to his usual tricks, scoring 31 points and keeping his name in the MVP discussion.

The game was close until Chicago went on a 15-0 run at the end of the third quarter, led by none other than John Salmons. Salmons has continued his case for Most Improved Player of the Year with a 27-point night to go along with five assists.

Derrick Rose got back out on the court after spending time on the bench with an injury Tuesday night. He showed Chicago fans what they were missing. Rose had arguably the play of the night in any sport when he drove the lane and floated a pass to Tyrus Thomas, who then slammed the ball home while getting fouled. 

The sure-fire Rookie of the Year was the only Bull, who saw significant playing time, not to record double-figures in scoring, but he was efficient. He hit four-of-six shots, for nine points, and chipped in on 14 other Bulls points with seven assists.

Ben Gordon and Kirk Hinrich contributed six three-point shots to Chicago's winning effort, and had 18 and 15 points respectively.

Joakim Noah continued his strong second half, chipping in with 10 points, seven rebounds, and four assists.

Backup center Brad Miller was also very effective off the bench, recording 12 points, six rebounds, and four assists.

Chicago had trouble with Jermaine O'Neal down low early on and he finished the game with 12 points.

Udonis Haslem chipped in 13 points and six rebounds for Miami, and rookies Mario Chalmers and Michael Beasley each had 10 points.

This was a very significant game for four teams: Chicago, Miami, Detroit, and Philadelphia. In the win, Chicago swapped spots with Detroit in the standings, and Miami's spot was taken over by the 76ers.

Chicago will be in action again on Saturday afternoon, a matinee against the Indiana Pacers at the United Center.