Box Score & Player Grades: Cavaliers 128, Bulls 122 – November 8, 2025
Less than two minutes into the Chicago Bulls' game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, coach Billy Donovan called a timeout. The Bulls quickly fell behind 7-0 after De’Andre Hunter hit a three-pointer. Both teams had played in the NBA Cup less than 24 hours earlier, but Cleveland scored 148 points against the Wizards and rested their starters in the second half.
Evan Mobley started strong for the Cavaliers, scoring 11 of their first 22 points. Despite this, the Bulls maintained their composure, relying on their deep bench to turn the game around near the end of the first quarter.
Bulls Rally with Bench Contributions
After Donovan called on his bench, Chicago responded with a 14-8 run to close out the first quarter, cutting the deficit to one possession. Ayo Dosunmu opened the second quarter with an and-one layup, giving the Bulls the lead and a boost of confidence.
Jalen Smith played a crucial role in the comeback, contributing 11 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 assists in just 11 minutes. He finished the first half at an impressive +22 plus-minus rating, as the Bulls’ bench outperformed the Cavaliers’ second unit 35-14.
Struggles for the Cavaliers
As the half progressed, the Cavaliers’ offense faltered, at one point missing 13 consecutive three-point attempts.
"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 a slow start through strong bench play led by Jalen Smith, while the Cavaliers’ offense stalled after an explosive opening.