The Chicago Bulls recovered from a sluggish start to run past the Philadelphia 76ers for an 89-80 victory at the United Center on Saturday.

Playing without reigning MVP Derrick Rose, missing a third game with a groin strain, the Bulls leaked 11 points before scoring their first basket after five minutes and fell behind by as many as 14 in the second quarter before storming back.

C.J. Watson led Chicago with 20 points, including a three-pointer with three minutes left in the third quarter that gave the Bulls the lead for good at 57-55. Joakim Noah added 13 points and 11 rebounds for the league-leading Bulls (37-10).

Philadelphia (25-20) were led by Jrue Holiday's 30 points, and Spencer Hawes was the only other starter to score in double digits with 10 as the 76ers fell to a third straight loss.