Bulls' Defensive Identity Takes Shape in 110-98 Win Over Magic

Kevin Lu

Oct 26, 2025, 02:49

Kevin Lu

Oct 26, 2025, 02:49

Updated at: Oct 28, 2025, 15:32

The Bulls' defensive struggles in the preseason raised serious concerns about their ability to guard the perimeter. Chicago allowed opponents to shoot 37.6% from three-point range during the preseason, ranking 28th in the league, with too many wide-open looks that led to collapses. But through two games of the regular season, that narrative is changing.

The 110-98 victory over Orlando on Saturday showcased a defense finally taking the shape Billy Donovan envisioned. The Bulls (2-0) held the Magic (1-2) to 39.1 % field goal, including just 3-of-24 shooting from beyond the arc, while connecting on 10-of-27 themselves. That 21-point differential from three-point range proved decisive in a game where Chicago's starters struggled offensively early on, but the defense kept them ahead.

It was the second straight game the Bulls locked down opposing shooters. In Wednesday's season opener, they limited Detroit's perimeter threats, forcing Cade Cunningham and sharpshooter Duncan Robinson to misfire repeatedly. Now, against Orlando's balanced attack, the defensive toughness helped Chicago maintain a lead from the early second quarter through the final whistle.

Paolo Banchero still managed a game-high 24 points, but the Bulls made him work for everything. Isaac Okoro drew the primary assignment and paid the price, picking up his fourth foul in the third quarter while battling Orlando's best player. Simultaneously, the Bulls switched effectively on pick-and-rolls designed for Banchero, forcing him into uncomfortable shots. He missed multiple threes and even mid-range jumpers, where he typically thrives.

Oct 25, 2025; Orlando, Florida, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Ayo Dosunmu (11) defends Orlando Magic guard Anthony Black (0) in the second half at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Russell Lansford-Imagn Images

The defensive effort extended beyond contesting shots. The Magic committed 20 turnovers, many generated by deflections and aggressive pressure. Tre Jones led the charge with a career-high five steals, and the Bulls totaled 13 as a team, converting those miscues into 24 points. That ability to create chaos and capitalize on mistakes reflects the physicality Donovan has preached since the training camp started.

"We continue to hone in on the things we've been focusing on. We try to play physical, we try to mark things up, making it difficult on the other team," Jones told CHSN postgame. "Our team continues to come together, and we're still not full strength."

Bulls on CHSN (@CHSN_Bulls) on X "Our team continues to come together and we're still not full strength." @KCJHoop checks in with Tre Jones following the Bulls' 110-98 win over the Magic

Jones's defensive activity sprinkled his offensive contributions—13 points and 8 assists—but his five steals set the tone for the Bulls' intensity. Patrick Williams also added two steals, and the collective effort showed a team buying into defensive principles.

The Magic's 3-for-24 shooting from deep wasn't just about missing shots—it was about the Bulls contesting everything, closing out with urgency, and making Orlando uncomfortable. That's a dramatic improvement from the preseason, when open looks came too easily.

With the defense rounding into form, the Bulls now turn their attention to the Atlanta Hawks on Oct 27. If they can maintain this discipline, containing Trae Young shouldn't be a concern. The Bulls now appear to have a defensive blueprint for neutralizing opposing stars, and if they can keep this intensity, the early-season triumph could turn into a sustained success.

Bulls' Defensive Identity Takes Shape in 110-98 Win Over Magic