Trae Young Leads Wizards Past Bulls 124-120 as Washington Survives Furious Fourth-Quarter Comeback
By Brian Hradsky
October 25, 2026
The Washington Wizards defeated the Chicago Bulls 124-120 Saturday night at the United Center, earning their first road victory of the 2026-27 NBA season behind another strong performance from Trae Young. Young finished with 25 points and nine assists, while Kyshawn George contributed 22 points and nine rebounds to help Washington recover from Friday’s loss to the Toronto Raptors. Anthony Davis added 19 points, and Justin Champagnie recorded a double-double with 11 points and 14 rebounds. The Wizards overcame a five-point halftime deficit with a dominant third quarter before surviving a furious Chicago comeback, improving to 2-1 while dropping the Bulls to 1-2.
Chicago Establishes Early Momentum
Washington entered Saturday’s contest playing the second game of a back-to-back after suffering a 112-102 home loss to Toronto on Friday. The Wizards had struggled with turnovers and defensive rebounding against the Raptors, creating an opportunity to demonstrate improvement against another Eastern Conference opponent. Chicago also entered on limited rest following a 132-125 victory over Milwaukee. Both teams were looking to establish momentum during the opening week of the season.
The Bulls used their athleticism and transition offense to challenge Washington throughout the first half. Rookie forward Caleb Wilson established an immediate presence around the basket, generating scoring opportunities through aggressive drives and offensive rebounding. Chicago repeatedly attacked before Washington could establish its half-court defense. The Bulls eventually built a 10-point advantage during the second quarter.
Despite those difficulties, Washington remained competitive behind Young’s playmaking and contributions from its supporting players. The Wizards finished the opening quarter ahead 28-27, demonstrating their ability to generate offense even when Chicago controlled the pace. However, the Bulls responded with a stronger second period and began establishing greater offensive momentum. Washington needed improved defensive execution to prevent another difficult road result.
Bulls Take Five-Point Halftime Lead
Chicago produced its strongest offensive stretch during the second quarter, outscoring Washington 35-29 to take a 62-57 halftime advantage. Wilson played a major role in the surge, finishing the opening half with 17 points and seven rebounds. His athleticism created several scoring opportunities around the rim, including multiple dunks. The rookie demonstrated why Chicago selected him fourth overall in the 2026 NBA Draft.
The Bulls established a 60-50 advantage with 2:02 remaining before halftime when Wilson finished a fast-break dunk that completed a 10-0 scoring run. The play highlighted Washington’s difficulties defending in transition and protecting the basket. Chicago continued generating opportunities through its younger players while forcing the Wizards to respond offensively. The home crowd appeared energized as the Bulls threatened to build a substantial lead.
Washington avoided entering halftime with a double-digit deficit by producing several important baskets during the closing minutes. Tre Johnson connected on a three-pointer shortly before the break, reducing Chicago’s advantage to five points. The basket provided an encouraging finish to a difficult quarter and prevented the Bulls from maintaining their largest lead. The Wizards entered halftime trailing 62-57 but remained within striking distance.
Wizards Dominate Third Quarter With 40-20 Run
Washington completely changed the direction of the contest during the third quarter, delivering its strongest stretch of basketball this season. The Wizards outscored Chicago 40-20 while shooting 65.2 percent from the field, connecting on 15 of 23 attempts. Their improved offensive execution created opportunities throughout the lineup and forced the Bulls into difficult defensive situations. Washington transformed a five-point deficit into a 15-point advantage entering the final period.
Davis and George each scored nine points during the third quarter, providing important offensive production near the basket and from the perimeter. Young added seven points and five assists, directing an attack that repeatedly found open scoring opportunities. The Wizards also improved their defensive intensity, limiting Chicago’s offensive rhythm and preventing the Bulls from maintaining their earlier transition advantage. The combination of efficient shooting and stronger defense allowed Washington to seize control.
One of the quarter’s most impressive plays came when Young delivered an alley-oop pass to Alex Sarr for a dunk with 34 seconds remaining. The basket extended Washington’s lead to 97-80 and demonstrated the effectiveness of the Wizards’ passing and interior finishing. Chicago managed another basket before the period ended, but Washington entered the fourth quarter ahead 97-82. The 40-point quarter represented a complete reversal from the team’s difficult first half.
Washington Builds 21-Point Advantage
The Wizards continued their strong performance during the opening portion of the fourth quarter, extending their lead to as many as 21 points. Washington appeared positioned to secure a comfortable victory after dominating the previous period. Young continued directing the offense while Davis and George provided important scoring contributions. The Wizards’ improved ball movement created favorable opportunities and prevented Chicago from establishing consistent defensive pressure.
Washington also received valuable production from its bench, helping maintain offensive momentum while the starters rested. Champagnie’s rebounding provided additional possessions and prevented Chicago from consistently controlling the glass. The Wizards demonstrated greater energy and physicality than they had during Friday’s loss to Toronto. Their performance suggested that the team had responded effectively to the previous night’s disappointing result.
However, Washington struggled to maintain that level of execution throughout the final period. The Bulls began generating stops and converting scoring opportunities, gradually reducing the deficit. The Wizards also experienced stretches of inconsistent offense, allowing Chicago to regain momentum. What had appeared to be a comfortable victory suddenly became another tense finish.
Bulls Nearly Complete Remarkable Comeback
Chicago mounted a furious rally during the closing minutes, using aggressive defense and timely scoring to challenge Washington’s substantial advantage. The Bulls produced a 16-4 run that reduced the Wizards’ lead to just three points with 23.3 seconds remaining. Matas Buzelis capped the surge with a baseline three-pointer, bringing Chicago within striking distance. The home crowd responded as the Bulls threatened to complete an improbable comeback.
Wilson continued providing important offensive production, while Buzelis and Norman Powell contributed additional scoring during the rally. Chicago’s ability to generate turnovers and create opportunities in transition placed pressure on Washington’s ball handlers. The Wizards struggled to establish consistent offensive possessions and allowed the Bulls to score quickly. Their inability to protect a substantial lead became one of the most concerning aspects of the contest.
Despite the late collapse, Washington maintained enough composure to secure the victory. Davis and Young combined to convert all six of their free-throw attempts during the closing seconds, preventing Chicago from completing the comeback. The successful foul shooting allowed Washington to protect its narrow advantage and finish the game ahead 124-120. The Wizards escaped with their second victory of the season after nearly surrendering a 21-point lead.
Young Leads Washington With 25 Points
Young delivered another important offensive performance, finishing with 25 points, nine assists and four rebounds. The veteran guard helped direct Washington’s decisive third-quarter surge, contributing seven points and five assists during the period. His ability to create scoring opportunities for teammates remained one of the team’s most important strengths. Young also demonstrated composure during the closing seconds by converting critical free throws.
The performance continued Young’s productive opening week with Washington. He recorded 20 points and 13 assists against Milwaukee before adding 22 points and 12 assists against Toronto. Saturday’s 25-point effort represented his highest scoring total through the first three games. His ability to contribute as both a scorer and playmaker has helped Washington establish a more effective offensive identity.
Young’s leadership was particularly valuable because the Wizards were playing on consecutive nights and needed improved execution following Friday’s defeat. His decision-making helped Washington generate 28 assists against Chicago, demonstrating the team’s ability to create scoring opportunities through ball movement. The Wizards will continue relying on Young to direct their offense while their roster develops chemistry. His production has been an encouraging development during the opening week.
George Delivers Outstanding All-Around Performance
George finished with 22 points, nine rebounds, five assists and four blocked shots, delivering one of Washington’s most complete individual performances. The young forward contributed offensively while providing important defensive activity against Chicago’s athletic frontcourt. His versatility allowed the Wizards to use different lineup combinations throughout the contest. George’s performance was especially valuable during Washington’s dominant third quarter.
The forward scored nine points during the decisive period, helping Washington establish its substantial advantage. His ability to attack the basket and finish through contact created problems for Chicago’s defenders. George also provided important rebounding support, helping Washington avoid the same difficulties that contributed to its loss against Toronto. His all-around production demonstrated his growing importance to the team’s rotation.
George’s development remains one of Washington’s most encouraging storylines. The Wizards need their younger players to provide consistent production alongside established veterans such as Young and Davis. George has demonstrated his ability to contribute in multiple statistical categories while accepting difficult defensive assignments. Continued improvement could make him an important part of Washington’s long-term plans.
Davis Responds After Difficult Toronto Game
Davis entered Saturday’s contest looking to recover from a disappointing performance against Toronto, when he scored just nine points on 3-of-12 shooting. The veteran had opened the season with 34 points and 12 rebounds against Milwaukee, demonstrating his potential to become Washington’s leading interior scoring threat. His struggles against the Raptors created questions about the team’s offensive consistency. Saturday provided an immediate opportunity to respond.
Davis finished with 19 points against Chicago, including nine during Washington’s dominant third quarter. His improved scoring helped the Wizards establish control after halftime and created additional opportunities for teammates. Although he did not match his opening-night production, Davis provided important contributions during the team’s strongest offensive stretch. His ability to convert late free throws also proved essential.
The veteran’s performance demonstrated the importance of receiving dependable production from Washington’s frontcourt. Davis gives the Wizards an established scoring option capable of challenging defenders near the basket and drawing fouls. However, the team will need greater consistency from him as the season progresses. His partnership with Young remains central to Washington’s offensive development.
Champagnie Records Double-Double Off Bench
Champagnie delivered an important performance with 11 points and 14 rebounds, providing valuable energy and physicality during Washington’s victory. His rebounding was particularly significant after the Wizards struggled to protect the glass against Toronto. Champagnie repeatedly pursued loose balls and helped Washington create additional possessions. His effort provided an important contribution from the bench.
The forward’s performance demonstrated the value of having dependable role players capable of influencing games without dominating the offense. Washington benefited from his willingness to defend, rebound and contribute when opportunities developed. His 14 rebounds represented one of the team’s strongest individual efforts on the glass during the opening week. The Wizards will need similar contributions as they continue their road trip.
Johnson also provided important scoring support, finishing with 13 points. His three-pointer shortly before halftime helped Washington remain within five points after Chicago’s strong second quarter. The young guard has demonstrated the ability to provide instant offense during the opening portion of the season. Continued contributions from Johnson and Champagnie could help strengthen Washington’s depth.
Caleb Wilson Delivers Career Night for Chicago
Wilson produced the strongest individual performance of the contest, finishing with 30 points and 14 rebounds. The rookie recorded his first NBA double-double and demonstrated his ability to compete against experienced frontcourt players. His athleticism and activity around the basket created significant challenges for Washington’s defense. Wilson’s performance was particularly impressive considering he was playing just his third regular-season NBA game.
The fourth overall selection in the 2026 NBA Draft scored 17 points during the first half, helping Chicago establish its halftime advantage. His scoring included several dunks and aggressive finishes around the basket. Wilson continued contributing during the second half and helped fuel the Bulls’ late comeback. However, he struggled from beyond the arc, connecting on only one of nine three-point attempts.
Buzelis added 21 points, while Powell contributed 18 as Chicago received scoring production from several players. The Bulls demonstrated offensive potential but struggled to maintain consistency during the third quarter. Their inability to prevent Washington’s 40-point period ultimately proved decisive. Chicago fell to 1-2 despite Wilson’s outstanding performance.
Three-Point Shooting Remains Concern for Chicago
The Bulls struggled significantly from beyond the arc, connecting on just 12 of 43 three-point attempts. Their 27.9 percent shooting performance contributed to the team’s inability to maintain its halftime advantage. Chicago experienced an especially difficult stretch during the third quarter when Washington increased its defensive pressure. The Bulls missed several opportunities to respond as the Wizards built their lead.
Chicago has struggled with perimeter shooting throughout the opening week, making only 28 of 124 three-point attempts across its first three games. The 22.6 percent success rate has created challenges for an offense that relies on spacing and transition opportunities. Wilson’s one-of-nine performance from beyond the arc contributed to Saturday’s difficulties. The Bulls will need improved shooting efficiency to become more consistent offensively.
Washington also experienced perimeter shooting challenges, connecting on 10 of 33 three-point attempts. However, the Wizards compensated through interior scoring and improved third-quarter efficiency. Washington outscored Chicago 62-54 in points in the paint, demonstrating its ability to generate offense near the basket. The difference helped the Wizards overcome their own inconsistent outside shooting.
Wizards Improve to 2-1 Without Dybantsa
Washington secured its second victory of the season despite remaining without rookie forward AJ Dybantsa. The first overall selection in the 2026 NBA Draft continues recovering from a sprained left ankle suffered during the preseason. The injury has delayed his highly anticipated regular-season debut. The Wizards have not announced a confirmed return date.
The team’s 2-1 start provides an encouraging foundation while Dybantsa remains unavailable. Young has established himself as the primary playmaker, while Davis, George and Johnson have provided important offensive contributions. Champagnie’s rebounding against Chicago also demonstrated the value of Washington’s supporting players. The eventual addition of Dybantsa could provide another scoring option and increase the team’s offensive versatility.
Washington will need to continue developing chemistry as its restructured roster gains experience together. The opening three games have demonstrated both the team’s offensive potential and its tendency to experience defensive lapses. The Wizards have already produced two victories against Milwaukee and Chicago while suffering a defeat against Toronto. Their ability to maintain consistency throughout complete games will become increasingly important.
Washington Travels to Charlotte Next
The Wizards will continue their three-game road trip Monday, October 26, when they face the Charlotte Hornets. The matchup provides another opportunity for Washington to build on its encouraging start and improve its road record. Young and Davis will look to maintain their offensive production while George and the team’s younger players continue developing. The coaching staff will also focus on preventing another late collapse.
Washington will then travel to Cleveland on Wednesday, October 28, for another Eastern Conference matchup. The early road trip provides an important opportunity to evaluate the team’s ability to compete away from Capital One Arena. Strong performances during this stretch could help Washington establish momentum heading into the remainder of the season. However, the Wizards must address their defensive consistency to avoid unnecessary losses.
Chicago will return to action Monday against the Boston Celtics. The Bulls will look to build on Wilson’s impressive performance while improving their perimeter shooting and defensive execution. Saturday’s comeback demonstrated their ability to compete despite facing a substantial deficit. However, the team must avoid the prolonged scoring difficulties that allowed Washington to establish control.
MSB Take
Washington’s 124-120 victory over Chicago was an encouraging result because the Wizards responded to Friday’s loss with their strongest offensive quarter of the season. Young delivered another productive performance with 25 points and nine assists, while George contributed an impressive all-around effort with 22 points, nine rebounds and four blocks. Davis also improved after his difficult performance against Toronto, scoring 19 points and contributing important baskets during the third-quarter surge. The combination helped Washington overcome a five-point halftime deficit and establish what appeared to be a comfortable lead.
The biggest concern remains Washington’s inability to maintain defensive intensity throughout complete games. Allowing Chicago to erase most of a 21-point deficit during the fourth quarter was unnecessary and nearly cost the Wizards an important road victory. The Bulls’ 16-4 late run demonstrated how quickly momentum can change when Washington struggles to execute offensively and defensively. The Wizards must become more consistent at protecting leads rather than relying on late free throws to escape difficult situations.
The positive takeaway is that Washington has started the season 2-1 despite playing without Dybantsa and continuing to develop chemistry among several new players. Young has provided dependable playmaking, George has demonstrated his versatility and Champagnie delivered important rebounding against Chicago. The Wizards have enough offensive talent to compete effectively when their lineup is functioning together. However, Keefe must emphasize defensive discipline and stronger fourth-quarter execution if Washington hopes to turn its encouraging start into sustained success.
