LA Lakers dominate Chicago Bulls, LeBron James scores 25 points in comeback

LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers took on the Chicago Bulls in a Western Conference showdown on Wednesday night. James returned to the starting lineup after being sidelined for a month due to a torn tendon in his right foot.

He scored 25 points, grabbed seven rebounds, and provided four assists in 31 minutes of play, leading the Lakers to a 121-110 victory over the Bulls.

James, a four-time NBA MVP, scored 19 points in Sunday’s loss to Chicago in his second appearance as a reserve in his 20-year NBA career.

Speaking about his return to the starting lineup, James said in an Associated Press report said that he’s trusting the work that he’s been putting in. “I know I put in a lot of work. I know my body,” he said.

James’ return to the starting lineup marked a turning point for the Lakers who are currently fighting for playoff positioning in the Western Conference.

Los Angeles kicked off a five-game trip with its fourth win in five games overall. Anthony Davis scored 38 points and grabbed 10 rebounds in his hometown, and D’Angelo Russell contributed 17 points.

“I always look forward to coming back home,” Davis said, adding that it’s always been a great feeling coming back home and getting a win.

Chicago struggled to keep up with the Lakers, with Nikola Vucevic scoring 29 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists. DeMar DeRozan added 22 points, while Coby White came off the bench to contribute 17 points and nine assists.

The Bulls are currently 10th in the Eastern Conference, clinging to the last spot for the play-in tournament.

Chicago’s inability to close the first half with momentum proved to be their downfall. In the third quarter, LeBron James made some tough shots that the Bulls were unable to match, leading to their second straight loss.

Bulls coach Billy Donovan said their inability to score with the Lakers hurt them.

The Lakers quickly pulled away in the fourth quarter, with Dennis Schröder’s three-point play making it 97-79 with 8:22 left, capping a 12-3 Lakers run. Davis then connected on his only 3-point attempt with 6:07 to go, giving Los Angeles a 105-87 lead.

The Lakers shot an impressive 52% from the field, with Austin Reaves adding 19 points.

The game had a lighthearted moment in the fourth quarter when Reaves made a floater over former teammate Patrick Beverley, before making a dismissive “too small” gesture sometimes used by NBA players to taunt their opponents.

Beverley had done the same thing against James on Sunday.

“It wasn’t something I thought about doing all game,” Reaves said. “But I felt like right time, right situation. Me and Pat (have) a good relationship. I respect him. It’s just me competing.”

The Lakers’ victory over the Bulls has put them in a strong position as they continue to push for a playoff spot. James’ return to the starting lineup will undoubtedly strengthen the team and improve their chances of success in the coming games.