Box Score & Player Grades: Cavaliers 128, Bulls 122 – November 8, 2025
Less than two minutes into the Chicago Bulls’ game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, head coach Billy Donovan called a timeout. The Bulls quickly fell behind 7-0 after De’Andre Hunter hit a three-pointer.
Chicago was playing less than 24 hours after facing the Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA Cup. Cleveland, also fresh from the NBA Cup where they scored 148 points against the Wizards, was able to rest key starters in the second half. Evan Mobley was especially effective early, scoring 11 of the Cavaliers’ first 22 points.
Despite the slow start, the Bulls did not lose composure. Their greatest asset, team depth, became evident late in the first quarter when Donovan brought in his bench players. The momentum shifted as Chicago produced a 14-8 run to finish the quarter, cutting the deficit to a single possession.
The second quarter started strong for the Bulls with Ayo Dosunmu converting an and-one layup, giving Chicago the lead and boosting their confidence.
Jalen Smith played a crucial 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 the Cavaliers' second unit 35-14.
As the first half progressed, Cleveland’s offense struggled significantly, at one point missing 13 consecutive three-point attempts.
“The Bulls didn’t panic. This team’s biggest strength has been its depth, and this proved itself again toward the end of the first quarter.”
“Jalen Smith was a major part of the turnaround, scoring 11 points with 7 rebounds and 3 assists in 11 minutes of action.”
Summary: The game highlighted the Bulls' resilience and depth, with Jalen Smith's bench performance playing a key role in their challenge against a strong Cavaliers team.