LeBron James’ Return Fails to Lift Lakers as Bulls Dominate in High-Scoring Clash

The Los Angeles Lakers suffered a disappointing 146-115 defeat to the Chicago Bulls on Saturday, despite the much-anticipated returns of LeBron James and Rui Hachimura. The loss marks the Lakers’ sixth defeat in their last nine NBA games, further complicating their playoff push. 

James, who had missed seven games due to a groin injury, returned to action but struggled to make a significant impact, finishing with 17 points. Hachimura, back after a 12-game absence with a knee issue, also failed to stem the tide as the Lakers were outplayed on both ends of the court. 

The Bulls, meanwhile, delivered their highest-scoring performance of the season, improving their record to 31-40. Coby White led the charge with a game-high 36 points, while rookie Matas Buzelis added 31 points in a standout performance. Australian guard Josh Giddey recorded his 15th career triple-double, contributing 15 points, 17 assists, and 10 rebounds. 

Despite a strong first-half showing from Luka Doncic, who scored 29 of his 34 points before halftime, the Lakers couldn’t maintain momentum. After narrowing the deficit to 65-64 early in the third quarter, the Bulls exploded with a 39-point quarter to take a commanding 104-89 lead into the final period. 

Elsewhere in the NBA:
– Giannis Antetokounmpo powered the Milwaukee Bucks to a 114-108 comeback victory over the Sacramento Kings, scoring 32 points and grabbing 17 rebounds. The Bucks overcame a 14-point deficit to secure the win.

– The Golden State Warriors, still without injured star Stephen Curry, fell 124-115 to the Atlanta Hawks. Trae Young shined with 25 points and 10 assists, notching his 41st double-double of the season. 

– Tyrese Haliburton returned from a three-game absence to guide the Indiana Pacers to a 108-103 win over the Brooklyn Nets. Pascal Siakam led the scoring with 26 points in the victory. 

The Lakers’ struggles continue to raise questions about their postseason prospects, while the Bulls’ dominant performance offers a glimmer of hope for their late-season resurgence.