Shorthanded Bulls Defeat Heat in Wild Win

Ayo Dosunmu leads the way with a season-high 29 points as the Bulls acquire Dario Saric in a three-team trade.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 11:31pm

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The Chicago Bulls, playing without several key players, defeated the Miami Heat 125-118 in a thrilling game on Saturday night. Ayo Dosunmu had a dominant performance, scoring a season-high 29 points to lead the shorthanded Bulls to the victory. In addition to the game, the Bulls also made a trade, acquiring Dario Saric and two second-round picks in a three-team deal with the Sacramento Kings and Cleveland Cavaliers.

Why it matters

The Bulls' win over the Heat showcases the team's resilience and depth, as they were able to overcome key absences and defeat one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference. Dosunmu's breakout game also demonstrates the continued development of the young guard. The trade for Saric and the additional draft capital bolsters the Bulls' roster and future assets as they look to build on their strong start to the season.

The details

Ayo Dosunmu led the way for the Bulls, scoring a season-high 29 points on an efficient 10-of-16 shooting performance. The Bulls were missing several key players, including DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine, but were still able to outlast the Heat in a back-and-forth affair. In addition to the game, the Bulls also made a trade, acquiring Dario Saric and two second-round picks from the Sacramento Kings and Cleveland Cavaliers.

  • The game was played on Saturday, February 1, 2026.
  • The trade was completed on the same day as the game.

The players

Ayo Dosunmu

A second-year guard for the Chicago Bulls who had a breakout performance, scoring a season-high 29 points in the win over the Heat.

Dario Saric

A veteran forward acquired by the Bulls in a three-team trade with the Sacramento Kings and Cleveland Cavaliers.

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What they’re saying

“Ayo Dosunmu followed his big fourth quarter on Thursday with a dominant half tonight on his way to a season-high 29 points.”

— Will Gottlieb, CHGO Bulls Analyst (CHGO)

“And how about those bigtime minutes from Yuki Kawamura!”

— Big Dave, CHGO Bulls Analyst (CHGO)

What’s next

The Bulls will look to build on this win as they continue their push for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

The takeaway

The Bulls' ability to win a close game against a top team, despite key absences, showcases the team's depth and resilience. Dosunmu's breakout performance and the team's trade acquisition of Saric demonstrate the Bulls' commitment to improving their roster and competing at a high level this season.