HomeNBADeMar DeRozan plays mind games to ensure 89% free throw shooter Derek Brunson misses key shots

Derek Brunson got tricked by DeMar DeRozan as Brunson missed most of his shots 

Friday night was the third time in ten days that the Chicago Bulls and New York Knicks had played. The two clubs were anticipated to be in the same group of Eastern Conference contenders this year, but they are now moving in different paths. Jalen Brunson, a standout for the Knicks, stepped to the line to try to give his side a three-point lead. DeMar DeRozan then made the decision to influence Derek Brunson’s mindset.聽

Derek Brunson Demar Derozan
Image Source: Flipboard

The talent disparity between any of these two teams isn’t as great as their records might suggest, and they played another closely contested game on Friday. DeMar DeRozan’s late-game heroics helped the Bulls win the game, 118-117, and we’re not just referring to his buzzer-beating jump shot.

Much more in the game: Chicago Bulls Versus New York Knicks聽

With a minute to go, the Knicks had a three-point lead when player Quentin Grimes was fouled and had to shoot free throws. He didn’t get a freebie either. In the final minute, Zach LaVine scored twice to cut the Knicks’ advantage to one, forcing the Bulls to foul with seven seconds remaining to preserve their final opportunity to reduce the score to one possession.

The seasoned Bulls player started insulting the Knicks guard, who then missed the opening free shot. After Brunson’s initial miss, DeRozan spoke to him once more, and as luck would have it, Brunson also missed the second free shot. 

Derek Brunson Demar Derozan
Image Source: SBNation.com

Six seconds remained, and the Bulls were now behind by one. DeRozan performs best in these circumstances, and he did it once more to rob the Knicks of a victory. With time running down, DeRozan put Grimes on an island, moved to his sweet spot just inside the three-point line, and rose to drain the game-winning basket.

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