Nets Routed by Bulls: Brooklyn Falls Flat as Chicago Catches Fire
Coming off a gritty win over the Bulls just two nights prior, the Brooklyn Nets had every reason to believe they could hang tough in the second half of this back-to-back. But Sunday night in Chicago was a different story entirely. The Bulls came out firing, and the Nets never found their footing, falling 124-102 in a game that got away early and never came back.
Brooklyn trailed by as many as 27 points in a game where just about everything that could go wrong in the first half, did. The Bulls were scorching hot out of the gate, and the Nets simply couldn’t match the energy-or the shot-making.
Still, even in a blowout loss, there were a few bright spots for Brooklyn. Let’s break down three key takeaways from the night:
1. Nolan Traore Finds His Rhythm
Rookie guard Nolan Traore hasn’t had the smoothest stretch lately, especially when it comes to shooting from deep. But on Sunday, he flipped the script.
Traore looked like a different player-confident, aggressive, and in control. He knocked down four of his five three-point attempts and finished with 16 points and two assists in what may have been his most complete performance of the season.
More importantly, he didn’t shy away from contact, earning six trips to the free-throw line. That kind of assertiveness is a great sign for a young guard still finding his place in the league.
If Traore can build on this outing, it could be a turning point in his rookie campaign.
2. Danny Wolf Makes the Most of His Start
With Michael Porter Jr. sitting this one out for rest, the Nets turned to Danny Wolf to fill the void in the starting lineup-and he embraced the opportunity.
Wolf brought energy and purpose, especially when attacking the rim. His outside shot wasn’t falling, but he didn’t let that deter him.
He stayed aggressive, looking to make plays and keep the offense moving. While he’s likely headed back to the bench when Porter returns, this was a strong reminder of Wolf’s ability to step in and contribute when needed.
Depth matters in the long grind of an NBA season, and performances like this one from Wolf show that Brooklyn has some reliable options beyond its core rotation.
3. Jalen Wilson Stays Ready
Jalen Wilson didn’t start the game, but he made sure he finished it with an impact. The second-year forward came off the bench with purpose, putting up 14 points and grabbing five rebounds in a solid all-around effort.
What stood out most? His decision-making.
Wilson didn’t settle for easy looks from the perimeter. Instead, he attacked the defense, kept the ball moving, and made the most of his touches.
It’s the kind of performance that doesn’t always show up in highlight reels but earns trust from coaches and teammates alike.
Head coach Jordi Fernandez has praised Wilson’s professionalism and readiness, and this game was a good example of why. Even when his minutes fluctuate, Wilson stays locked in.
Up Next: Suns on Deck
There’s no time to dwell on this one. The Nets are right back at it Monday night, hosting a Phoenix Suns team that brings plenty of firepower. With less than 24 hours to regroup, Brooklyn will need to lean on its depth, shake off the loss, and find a way to bring more defensive intensity.
Sunday night was a reminder of how quickly things can snowball in the NBA-especially when a team like Chicago shoots nearly 60% from the field in the first half. But it was also a chance to see young players like Traore, Wolf, and Wilson step up in tough spots.
If the Nets can take those individual positives and channel them into a more complete team effort, they’ll be in better shape when the Suns come to town.