5 Takeaways from the Chicago Bulls’ Collapse Against Cleveland Cavaliers

The Chicago Bulls suffered back-to-back defeats for the first time this season, falling 128–122 to the Cleveland Cavaliers after losing control late in the game. For much of the season, the Bulls had earned a reputation for composure and precision in tight matchups, winning all four of their previous games decided by five points or fewer in the final minutes.

Those close contests had become a mark of progress and belief for a team hoping to improve its status in the Eastern Conference. But that streak came to an abrupt end in Cleveland, where a costly late-game collapse marked their first narrow loss of the season.

Momentum Shift After Strong Start

The Bulls entered halftime up by 16 points after steadying their defense following the Cavaliers’ quick 7–0 run. They even stretched the margin to 19 in the third quarter, appearing in full control before momentum swung the other way.

Donovan Mitchell’s Turnaround

In the first half, Donovan Mitchell managed only three points on 1-for-10 shooting. That drought didn’t last. Mitchell erupted in the second half, pouring in 26 points and hitting multiple three-pointers that powered Cleveland’s comeback.

"The Cavaliers star scored only three points in the first half on 1-for-10 shooting... Mitchell quickly heated up in the second half, scoring 26 points while peppering 3-pointers to fuel a comeback."

Clutch Consistency Tested

Chicago’s previous late-game resilience gave way to fatigue and missed opportunities down the stretch. The game served as a reminder of how quickly momentum can swing — and how one cold streak can undo two strong quarters of basketball.

Key Points

• The Bulls’ first consecutive losses this season came after leading big early.
• The team had previously been 4–0 in clutch-time situations.
• Donovan Mitchell’s second-half surge defined the Cavaliers’ comeback.
• Chicago’s defense and composure faltered under renewed offensive pressure.

Summary: The Bulls’ early dominance dissolved under Mitchell’s second-half explosion, exposing their inconsistency and ending their streak of clutch resilience in back-to-back losses.