The Chicago Bulls defeated the Los Angeles Clippers 114-101 on Friday night, and both Chris Paul and Derrick Rose played well under the bright lights. Derrick Rose just happened to play better than Paul. Rose scored 29 points on 8-14 shooting, and added 15 assists and eight rebounds as well. Meanwhile, Paul finished with a respectable15 points on 7-for-14 with 14 assists and four steals, but Rose controlled the action all night long.
After the game he spoke about the offense in general and about his matchup with Paul:
Rose on the Bulls offense:
We're a way, way better offensive team this year knowing guys don't need a pick and roll. Lu (Luol Deng), Rip (Richard Hamilton), Booz (Carlos Boozer). Guys can go out and score the ball. Me attacking opens everything up for everyone else. The first game I was on the perimeter, settling for jump shots. The Golden State game was like that, too. Since then I'm pushing the ball, trying to get to the line. I had to get a rhythm and it's coming back to me.
Rose on his matchup with Chris Paul:
Fun, fun, fun. It's a challenge, especially when you are out there on an island (defensively). The crowd gets into it. That's what you live for. I'm taking the challenge. It's fun. You've got to show no fear.
Quotes via Sam Smith of Bulls.com. Derrick Rose is now a perfect 5-0 in head-to-head matchups against Chris Paul, so it's hardly surprising he finds the opportunity so fun right now.
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