Box Score & Player Grades: Cavaliers 128, Bulls 122

Box Score & Player Grades: Cavaliers 128, Bulls 122 – November 8, 2025

Less than two minutes into the game between the Chicago Bulls and the Cleveland Cavaliers, Bulls coach Billy Donovan called a timeout. The Bulls fell behind 7-0 quickly after De’Andre Hunter hit a three-pointer.

Both teams were playing less than 24 hours after their NBA Cup games. Cleveland had scored 148 points against the Wizards and rested their starters in the second half. Evan Mobley stood out by scoring 11 of the Cavaliers’ first 22 points.

Despite the early deficit, the Bulls remained composed. Their depth proved crucial toward the end of the first quarter when the momentum shifted after Donovan relied on his bench. Chicago finished the quarter on a 14-8 run, narrowing the gap to just one possession.

Second Quarter Surge

Ayo Dosunmu opened the second quarter with an and-one layup, giving the Bulls the lead and boosting their confidence.

Jalen Smith played a key role in the comeback, scoring 11 points with 7 rebounds and 3 assists in just 11 minutes.
Smith had a plus-minus of +22 by halftime, helping the Bulls' bench outscore Cleveland's second unit 35-14.

As the half progressed, the Cavaliers’ offense deteriorated, missing 13 straight three-point attempts at one stage.

"Jalen Smith was a major part of the turnaround, scoring 11 points with 7 rebounds and 3 assists in 11 minutes of action."

The Bulls demonstrated resilience and depth, nearly overcoming the Cavaliers' strong start.

Author's Summary

The Bulls' bench sparked a critical second-quarter comeback that challenged the Cavaliers, highlighting Chicago’s depth despite a slow start and Cleveland’s early dominance.

Bleacher Nation — 2025-11-09