Rose shines, but Bulls lose again

There was no reason to worry about the Bulls bringing the intensity for this game. The Washington Wizards definitely grab their attention.

But while the Bulls brought a better effort than they have in recent games, so many other problems spoiled their chances. Despite a season-high 32 points by Derrick Rose, the Bulls were outplayed in the second half and lost to Washington 105-99 on Wednesday at the United Center.

The Bulls' slump has now hit four losses in the last five games, and they lost to the Wizards for the second time in a week.

Joakim Noah injured his right ankle as time expired in the second quarter and he didn't play in the second half.

The Bulls (26-14) led by 6 at halftime, then were outscored 32-19 in the third quarter and couldn't make it up in the fourth. They played well at times, but weren't sharp in several areas.

The Bulls are struggling with post defense, pick-and-roll defense. With so many different lineups in use, they never seem to be on the same page. And Jimmy Butler's shooting slump - he went 3-for-10 for 13 points on Wednesday - has taken away one of their reliable scorers.

Rose set a career-high by making 6 baskets from 3-point range on 9 attempts.

Check back for much more on this game from Mike McGraw.