J-Smoove's triple-double gets Hawks past Bulls

The Bulls came to Atlanta seeking revenge. Josh Smith’s performance ensured that Chicago left Philips Arena empty handed.

Chicago playing with the fresh memory of their 118-83 loss to Atlanta on Dec. 9 entered the fourth quarter with a 70-64 lead. The Hawks persevered, turned up the defensive intensity and went on two separate 8-0 runs punctuated by an Al Horford slam to rally for a 91-81 victory.

Atlanta outscored Chicago 27-11 in the final period.

Smith finished with 18 points, 14 rebounds and 10 assists to record the second triple-double of his career. He also added 2 steals and a blocked shot.

Bulls’ starting center Joakim Noah didn’t make the trip and Atlanta took advantage with a 14-9 offensive rebounding advantage. Joe Johnson added 18 for Atlanta, who improved to 21-5 at Philips Arena and won their second consecutive game.

Atlanta travels to Washington to face the Wizards on Feb. 6.

Game Notes

While the Hawks held All-Star Derrick Rose to sub .500 shooting from the floor, the youngster was able to break free for a couple of monster dunks

Marvin Williams is averaging 10.5 points and 9 rebounds in his last two games. In the previous three contests he was only contributing 5 points on 33 percent shooting

Jamal Crawford and Maurice Evans were Atlanta’s only two bench players to receive over ten minutes