CHICAGO — Derrick Rose scored 30 points and the Bulls closed in on the top seed in the Eastern Conference by beating the Celtics 97-81 last night.

The Bulls’ 17th win in 19 games put them four games up on Boston and Miami with four to play and eliminated the Heat from getting the No. 1 seed.

The Celtics, who play the Heat on Sunday, still have a mathematical shot albeit a remote one. But barring a collapse, Chicago will be the top seed in the East.

Rose was a one-man highlight reel against Rajon Rondo, beating him with his crossover and getting to the rim, particularly in the early going. Rose scored 16 points in the first half as the Bulls jumped out to a 48-43 lead, and Chicago regrouped after momentarily falling behind in the third.

Luol Deng scored 23 points, and Carlos Boozer added 14 points and 12 rebounds. Paul Pierce led Boston with 15 points.