There was an interesting ratings battle last night in Chicago. The Bulls and Blackhawks went head-to-head for most of the night with playoff games.

The Bulls won a squeaker. They did an 8.87 local rating for their Game 5 against Miami on TNT. Tipoff was at 6 p.m. Central.

Meanwhile, the Blackhawks’ Game 1 against Detroit, which started at 7 p.m., pulled in an 8.13 local rating on NBC Sports Network.

Of course, it should be pointed out that all things weren’t equal. There’s a big difference between a Game 5 of a playoff series compared to Game 1. A much bigger sense of urgency.

Also, the Bulls played terrific in their David vs. Goliath bid to overtake LeBron and the big, bad Heat. The game was highly compelling and definitely pulled in viewers.

Thanks to the time difference, Chicago fans were able to stay through the end of the Bulls game and then tune in for the third period of the Blackhawks game.

The bottom line: It was a huge night for sports viewing in Chicago. As the Blackhawks continue their run, expect their Chicago rating to soar.