The Cavaliers fell to the Bulls 116-112 in their preseason opener from Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.
Evan Mobley led the team with 19 points and grabbed six rebounds with three blocks.
Darius Garland sunk 13 and dished out five assists, while Cleveland was 0-and-1 in early exhibition play.
The preseason continues tomorrow night when the Pacers come to town.