Chicago Bulls vs. New Orleans Hornets 2/19/13: Video Highlights and Recap

The New Orleans Hornets played the Chicago Bulls tough on Tuesday night, but the Bulls ultimately grinded out a 96-87 victory in Louisiana.

The Bulls went on a 6-0 run to start the game, but the Hornets went on a 15-4 run after that to grab a 15-10 lead with 4:56 remaining in the first quarter.

But the Bulls charged back, going on a 16-6 run to close out the first 12 minutes of action with a 26-21 lead. That was the last time Chicago would give up the lead, although New Orleans made it close throughout the game.

The Bulls shot 46 percent from the floor during the game, while out-rebounding the Hornets, 47-39 (including 14 offensive rebounds). They held the Hornets to 42 percent shooting, including 4-of-17 from downtown.

Player of the Game: Joakim Noah, C, Chicago Bulls

Who else for the Bulls this season?

In the absence of Derrick Rose, Joakim Noah has been spectacular this season, earning an All-Star selection while averaging a double-double.

The 27-year-old posted 15 points, 17 rebounds, five assists and three blocks in Tuesday's victory.

Up Next for Bulls

Chicago hosts the Miami Heat on Thursday. The Heat are 36-14 this season, holding the Eastern Conference's top seed. The Big Three of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh lead the team once again.

Up Next for Hornets

New Orleans visits the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday. The Cavaliers are 16-37 this season, but they have a great young player to build around in point guard Kyrie Irving (averaging 23.5 points, 5.5 assists, 3.7 rebounds and 1.7 steals this season).