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 falling behind 7-0 due to a three-pointer by De’Andre Hunter. Chicago had played less than 24 hours earlier against the Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA Cup, while Cleveland also came off a recent NBA Cup game, scoring 148 points against the Wizards and resting starters in the second half.
Evan Mobley was particularly impressive, scoring 11 of Cleveland’s first 22 points. Despite the early deficit, the Bulls remained composed, relying on their strong bench depth to shift momentum at the end of the first quarter.
Bulls' Bench Sparks Comeback
Donovan’s decision to bring in the bench resulted in a 14-8 run, narrowing the gap to a one-possession game. Starting the second quarter, Ayo Dosunmu converted an and-one layup, giving Chicago the lead and a boost in confidence.
“Jalen Smith was a major part of the turnaround, scoring 11 points with 7 rebounds and 3 assists in 11 minutes of action.”
Smith’s performance at halftime showed a remarkable +22 plus-minus rating, as the Bulls’ second unit outscored the Cavaliers’ bench 35-14.
Cavaliers' Second Half Struggles
As the half progressed, Cleveland’s offense faltered significantly, at one point missing 13 consecutive three-point attempts, which contributed to their difficulties keeping up with Chicago.
Game Summary
- Early lead by Cavaliers thanks to De’Andre Hunter’s triple
- Bulls bench, led by Jalen Smith and Ayo Dosunmu, shifted momentum
- Cavaliers rested starters in second half after high scoring in previous game
- Cavaliers’ shooting struggles, especially from three-point range
- Final score: Cavaliers 128, Bulls 122
Author’s summary: The Bulls’ depth and bench contributions fueled a strong comeback, but despite the Cavaliers’ shooting woes, Cleveland edged Chicago in a closely contested game.