Bulls Struggle With Confusing Rotation in Loss to Raptors

Chicago's new-look lineup couldn't find its footing in 110-101 defeat

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

The Chicago Bulls dropped their seventh straight game, falling 110-101 to the Toronto Raptors despite a strong effort. The Bulls struggled with turnovers and a confusing rotation as they integrated new players, but showed fight in keeping the game close until the final minutes.

Why it matters

The loss extends Chicago's skid and raises questions about the team's rotations and player development priorities as the season winds down. With several new faces, the Bulls are still trying to find the right mix and chemistry.

The details

The Bulls turned the ball over 20 times, leading to 14 Raptors points in the first quarter alone. Chicago's new-look starting lineup featuring Josh Giddey and Jalen Smith struggled with chemistry early on. Head coach Wes Unseld Jr. also made some curious rotation decisions, sitting lottery pick Jaden Ivey and limiting rookie Rob Dillingham to just 10 minutes. The Bulls did make a late push to get within a possession, but couldn't overcome their sloppy play.

  • The Bulls have now lost seven games in a row.

The players

Tre Jones

Scored 12 points and dished out 6 assists in his first game back from injury.

Isaac Okoro

Scored 16 points and hit 3 three-pointers to keep the Bulls in the game.

Jalen Smith

Recorded a double-double with 9 points and 10 rebounds, playing physically despite being undersized.

Anfernee Simons

Led the Bulls with 20 points, but shot just 7-for-18 from the field.

Wes Unseld Jr.

The Bulls' acting head coach made some questionable rotation decisions, sitting Jaden Ivey and limiting Rob Dillingham.

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What’s next

The Bulls will look to end their skid when they host the Detroit Pistons on Saturday.

The takeaway

The Bulls' loss to the Raptors highlighted the challenges of integrating so many new players and the need to prioritize player development down the stretch of a lost season.