Rare is the early November regular-season game that serves as a legitimate litmus test.
But with a defensive debacle in their rearview mirror and a Western Conference offensive juggernaut in their sights, the Bulls had one Thursday night at the United Center.
Derrick Rose overcame a poor shooting start to take over late, scoring eight straight of his season-high 29 points from the 3 minute, 35 second mark until 1:07 remained.
Jimmy Butler added a season-high-tying 26 points to lead the Bulls to a 104-98 victory over the Thunder.
"This was big," said Butler, who backed up his promise that the Bulls would play more inspired.
"Derrick's a helluva player.
He carried us.