Box Score & Player Grades: Cavaliers 128, Bulls 122 – November 8, 2025
Less than two minutes into the game between the Chicago Bulls and Cleveland Cavaliers, Bulls coach Billy Donovan called a timeout after his team fell behind 7-0, sparked by a three-pointer from De’Andre Hunter.
Both teams had played in the NBA Cup less than 24 hours earlier. Cleveland defeated the Wizards with 148 points and rested their starters in the second half. Evan Mobley was especially impressive, scoring 11 of Cleveland's first 22 points.
Despite the early deficit, the Bulls remained composed, relying on their depth. Donovan’s bench players sparked a momentum shift late in the first quarter, as Chicago finished the frame on a 14-8 run, closing the gap to one possession.
The Bulls carried the momentum into the second quarter when Ayo Dosunmu scored an and-one layup, giving Chicago the lead and a boost in confidence. Jalen Smith played a key role in the comeback, contributing 11 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 assists in just 11 minutes. By halftime, Smith had an outstanding +22 plus-minus, helping the Bulls’ bench outscore Cleveland’s second unit 35-14.
As the game progressed, Cleveland’s offense struggled, missing 13 consecutive three-point attempts at one point.
"Less than two minutes into the Chicago Bulls’ meeting with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Billy Donovan was calling a timeout."
"Jalen Smith was a major part of the turnaround, scoring 11 points with 7 rebounds and 3 assists in 11 minutes of action."
Author's summary: The Bulls overcame an early deficit thanks to strong bench performances and resilience, pushing the Cavaliers in a tightly contested game that highlighted team depth and momentum swings.