The Chicago Bulls edged the Toronto Raptors 122-121 on December 16, 2024, at Scotiabank Arena, marking the Raptors’ fifth consecutive loss. Nikola Vučević led the Bulls with 24 points, while Coby White contributed 19 points. Despite building a 16-point lead, the Bulls had to withstand a late Raptors surge to secure the victory.
The Bulls’ bench made significant contributions, with Talen Horton-Tucker adding 15 points, Jalen Smith 10 points, and Julian Phillips 10 points. Josh Giddey was impactful with 11 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists before exiting in the third quarter due to an ankle injury. Notably, leading scorer Zach LaVine was absent from the game due to back spasms.
For the Raptors, RJ Barrett was the standout performer, scoring 32 points, including 19 in the first half. Gradey Dick added 27 points, and Chris Boucher recorded a double-double with 11 points and 10 rebounds. Jakob Poeltl contributed six points and five rebounds before leaving early in the fourth quarter with a groin injury.
The game was tightly contested, with the Bulls leading 53-50 at halftime and extending their advantage to 95-84 by the end of the third quarter. The Raptors mounted a comeback in the fourth quarter, narrowing the deficit to one point with 2:28 remaining. However, crucial baskets from White and Vučević in the final minute helped the Bulls maintain their lead. A last-second three-pointer by Toronto’s Jamal Shead brought the Raptors within one, but time expired before they could attempt another shot.
This victory marked the Bulls’ second consecutive win, improving their season record, while the Raptors continued to struggle, now having lost five straight games.
