The Chicago Bulls outlasted the Atlanta Hawks 152-150 on Sunday in the highest-scoring game of the NBA season, totaling 302 points. While the win counted the same in the standings, it did little to please head coach Billy Donovan. After the game, Donovan spoke candidly about the defensive breakdowns that allowed 150 points, offering a blunt assessment of his team’s performance, according to John Hollinger of The Athletic.
“Look, we’re not a great defensive team,” the Bulls head coach remarked.
The Bulls surrendered 73 points before halftime and had no answers defensively in the paint or in transition. Atlanta took advantage with 66 points at the rim, 26 on the break, and 57 from its bench.
Even with the Chicago Bulls shooting better than 60 percent in the first half, Atlanta stayed right with them by hitting 55.6 percent from the field and nearly 50 percent from beyond the arc.
The Bulls defensive woes continue
Apr 16, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA;Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan gestures during the first quarter of a game against the Miami Heat at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
Chicago spread the scoring around, with nine players reaching double figures. Matas Buzelis paced the group with 28 points, while Coby White added 21 after getting cleared despite an ankle issue. Josh Giddey chipped in 19, Kevin Huerter scored 16, and Isaac Okoro finished with 14. Ayo Dosunmu and Nikola Vucevic each posted 13, Tre Jones contributed 11, and Zach Collins rounded it out with 10.
Jalen Johnson and Trae Young carried the Hawks’ offense, combining for 71 points with 36 from Johnson and 35 from Young.
Dec 21, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Matas Buzelis (14) defends a shot by Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson (1) during the second half at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
Anyone watching closely can see that defense is not Chicago’s strength. The Bulls have had issues protecting the rim, securing rebounds, and maintaining consistency on that end of the floor. Opponents regularly exploit the paint, as the Hawks did, and Chicago often struggles to shrink driving lanes. That combination leads to easy looks inside and extra trips to the free throw line.
The Bulls also allowed too many second chance opportunities, which quickly turned into problems in transition. While Tre Jones and Isaac Okoro help shore up the defense at times, the overall effort on that end has remained uneven.
“It was crazy”: Matas Buzelis in awe as Bulls and Hawks combined for 302 points
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