Box Score & Player Grades: Cavaliers 128, Bulls 122 – November 8, 2025
Less than two minutes into their clash with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan called an early timeout. The Bulls quickly fell behind 7–0 after De’Andre Hunter’s three-pointer. Both teams were on short rest, having played NBA Cup games the previous night.
Cleveland had exploded for 148 points against the Wizards, allowing their starters to rest. Evan Mobley continued his hot form, scoring 11 of Cleveland’s first 22 points. Despite the slow start, the Bulls remained composed and leaned on their depth — a season-long strength.
Late in the first quarter, Donovan’s decision to turn to the bench paid off. Chicago closed the period on a 14–8 run, cutting the deficit to a single possession. Ayo Dosunmu then opened the second quarter with an and-one layup that gave Chicago the lead and renewed energy.
Jalen Smith played a pivotal role in the surge, putting up 11 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 assists in 11 minutes. He posted an impressive +22 at halftime, helping the Bulls’ reserves outscore the Cavaliers’ bench 35–14. Meanwhile, Cleveland’s offense grew stagnant, missing 13 consecutive three-point attempts as the half progressed.
“The Bulls didn’t panic. This team’s biggest strength has been its depth.”
Author's Summary
Chicago’s depth sparked a strong first-half comeback against Cleveland, led by Jalen Smith’s impressive bench performance and steady adjustments from Coach Donovan.