Wizards stave off Bulls comeback for second win

The game turned out to be more of an adventure than seemed likely when the Wizards took a 21-point lead early in the fourth quarter, but they prevailed in the end, outlasting the Chicago Bulls, 124-120, for their first road win of the season.

The Wizards built that lead with a heady third quarter blitz in which they outscored the Bulls 40-20. After falling behind by 21, the Bulls cut into Washington’s lead, but the Wizards maintained what seemed to be a comfortable double-digit advantage. Chicago rallied over the final three minutes. Washington’s lead dwindled to as little as three points with 23 seconds to play.

Justin Champagnie corralled 14 rebounds in 26 minutes. | Getty Images

Trae Young and Anthony Davis made their free throws at the end to ice the game and escape the Windy City with a victory.

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Thoughts & Observations

It’s only three games, so it’s too soon to worry (or celebrate) just about anything, but…I have my eye on Davis’ inefficient offense. He’s been efficient throughout his career and almost certainly will be again. I don’t love the subpar shooting (which might be at least partly attributable to his shot selection) and turnovers.

Last night’s game generated a pace factor of 112, which is pretty doggone high. Washington averaged 101.4 possessions per 48 minutes last season. The only game with more possessions was when Bam Adebayo went for 83 points, and there were shenanigans deployed to help him get there.

This was the best game of the season for Kyshawn George because of 9 rebounds, 5 assists, and 4 blocks. The offensive efficiency wasn’t there (101 offensive rating — about -10 points per 100 possessions relative to league average), and he did have three turnovers (too many). But he defended without fouling excessively and contributed all over the floor.

Bilal Coulibaly is a menace to opposing ball handlers. Or passers. Or those who attempt to shoot near the basket.

There’s a not small part of my brain that thinks when the team is playing its most important games this season, the guy who will be out there with Young, Davis, Alex Sarr, and AJ Dybantsa will be Justin Champagnie. He’s…

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Publish date : 2026-10-25 12:00:00

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