Chicago BullsOpen full analysis
Orlando MagicOpen full analysis
The Orlando Magic defeated the Chicago Bulls 125–120 on December 1 at Kia Center in a closely contested matchup that stayed under the Vegas total of 239.5 points. D. Bane led Orlando with 37 points, while Franz Wagner added 25 as the Magic shot 51.1 percent from the field and made 9 three-pointers. Chicago's J. Giddey and M. Buzelis contributed 22 and 21 points respectively, and the Bulls countered with efficient perimeter shooting, connecting on 16 threes while shooting 50 percent overall. Orlando's fourth quarter proved decisive, outscoring Chicago 40–35 in the final frame to secure the five-point victory. The Magic's defense held the Bulls' offensive rating to 111.4, while Orlando's own 116.3 offensive rating powered the win despite committing 17 turnovers to Chicago's 20. The Bulls' 30 assists and 16 three-pointers demonstrated offensive balance, yet Orlando's superior execution down the stretch and Bane's scoring load made the difference. Orlando's road-tested fourth-quarter poise positions them favorably in the Eastern Conference standings.
