Like true matadors, the Toronto Raptors tamed the Chicago Bulls Sunday at Scotiabank Arena, defeating them 113-104.
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The two teams traded leads a few times during the game, but midway through the fourth quarter the crowd favorites took the lead never to look back.
Fred VanVleet, absent from his last three games, celebrated his return to the pitch with an impressive 30-point performance. He made nine of his 22 shots, including five of 13 from downtown, as well as his seven free throws, in addition to his double-double with 11 assists. The point guard also had five rebounds.
He had help from the likes of OG Anunoby and Scottie Barnes, who added 22 and 19 points respectively in the absence of Pascal Siakam, who injured his right groin in his last game.
For his part, Quebec’s Chris Boucher added eight points and six rebounds in just over 22 minutes on the field.
For the Bulls, former Toronto squad member DeMar DeRozan was the most prolific with 20 points, while Nikola Vucevic and Alex Caruso each had a double-double.
The Raptors have another opportunity to defeat the Bulls on Monday. This time, however, the Illinois side have a chance to showcase themselves in front of their own fans.