Box Score & Player Grades: Cavaliers 128, Bulls 122 – November 8, 2025
Under two minutes into the game between the Chicago Bulls and Cleveland Cavaliers, Bulls coach Billy Donovan called a timeout. The Bulls started poorly, falling behind 7-0 after De’Andre Hunter hit a three-pointer. Chicago had played less than 24 hours earlier against the Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA Cup. Cleveland, also fresh from the NBA Cup, scored 148 points against the Wizards and rested their starters in the second half.
Evan Mobley stood out early, scoring 11 of the Cavaliers’ first 22 points. Despite the slow start, the Bulls remained composed. Their depth proved decisive toward the end of the first quarter when Donovan brought in his bench players. Chicago closed the frame with a 14-8 run, narrowing the gap to a one-possession game.
Starting the second quarter, Ayo Dosunmu scored an and-one layup, giving the Bulls the lead and a boost in confidence. Jalen Smith played a key role in the comeback, logging 11 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 assists in 11 minutes. By halftime, Smith was +22, aiding the Bulls’ bench in outscoring the Cavaliers’ second unit 35-14. However, as the half progressed, Cleveland’s offense struggled significantly, missing 13 consecutive three-point attempts at one point.
"Jalen Smith was a major part of the turnaround, scoring 11 points with 7 rebounds and 3 assists in 11 minutes of action. He would go into halftime a ridiculous +22."
"The further we got into the half, the uglier the Cavs’ offense became. At one point, they missed 13 straight threes."
The game exemplified the Bulls’ resilience and bench strength despite the early deficit, while the Cavaliers experienced offensive challenges despite their fast start.
Author's summary: The Bulls showcased remarkable bench depth and resilience, overcoming Cleveland’s strong start, while the Cavaliers struggled offensively as their early momentum faded.