Bulls Routed by Knicks as Rookie Wilson Is Benched

Chicago’s defensive problems were evident from the opening minutes. The Knicks, the defending NBA champions, scored 43 points in the first quarter while shooting 15-for-23, and Jalen Brunson put up 22 points in the period. New York reached halftime with 84 points, tying a franchise record, and went on to win 135-105.

The loss left the Bulls at 1-7. Coach Tiago Splitter said Wilson, the fourth overall pick, had not played well on either end of the court and needed to improve. Wilson scored five points and, after playing in the third quarter, did not return.

Giddey offered a brighter, if limited, sign for Chicago. He scored 10 points and had six assists, making three of his first four shots. Before the game, he was averaging 9.1 points, 7.9 assists and 5.1 rebounds, and shooting 26.9% from three-point range. Last season, he averaged 17 points per game and shot 36.4% from beyond the arc.

Splitter said he wanted Giddey to play aggressively and be himself. Giddey said he could improve his efficiency and ability to drive to the basket, but felt the team was making progress despite its record. He also said Chicago needed to respect every opponent and keep working toward wins. The team’s defense remains a pressing concern after the defeat.