On March 22, 2025, at the Crypto.com Arena, the Chicago Bulls defeated the Los Angeles Lakers by a decisive score of 146-115.
On March 22, 2025, at Crypto.com Arena, the Chicago Bulls delivered a dominant performance, defeating the Los Angeles Lakers 146-115.
Coby White led the charge with 36 points, while rookie Matas Buzelis impressed with 31. Josh Giddey recorded a stellar triple-double, contributing 15 points, 17 assists, 10 rebounds, and eight steals.
For the Lakers, Luka Dončić scored 34 points, with 29 coming in the first half, while Austin Reaves added 25. LeBron James, returning after a seven-game absence due to a groin injury, tallied 17 points, six rebounds, and four assists.
Despite a strong first half, the Lakers struggled in the second, committing 21 turnovers and being outscored 81-53. This marked their sixth loss in nine games as the Bulls’ relentless offensive and defensive execution sealed the victory.
Key Performances
Chicago Bulls:
Coby White: Exploded for 36 points, shooting an efficient 12-of-17 from the field, including six three-pointers.
Matas Buzelis: The rookie impressed with 31 points, showcasing his scoring versatility.
Josh Giddey: Nearly recorded a quadruple-double, finishing with 15 points, 17 assists, 10 rebounds, and 8 steals.
Los Angeles Lakers:
Luka Dončić: Led the Lakers with 34 points, including 29 in the first half, along with eight rebounds and six assists.
Austin Reaves: Contributed 25 points and five assists, trying to keep the Lakers in the game.
LeBron James: In his return, posted 17 points, six rebounds, four assists, and three steals.
Key Moments In Match
Chicago Bulls Dominate Lakers with a 146-115 Victory – Key Moments
On March 22, 2025, the Chicago Bulls delivered a dominant performance, crushing the Los Angeles Lakers 146-115. Despite a strong start from the Lakers, the Bulls took control in the second half and never looked back. Here are the key moments from the game:
First Half – Luka Dončić’s Hot Start
Luka Dončić put on a shooting clinic in the first half, scoring 29 of his 34 points, including eight three-pointers.
The Bulls held their ground, keeping the game close and finishing the half leading 65-62.
Third Quarter – Bulls Take Over
Coby White led the charge as the Bulls erupted for a 39-27 third quarter run, breaking open the game.
Chicago’s defense tightened, limiting the Lakers’ offensive rhythm.
Fourth Quarter – Bulls Seal the Win
The Bulls didn’t slow down, pouring in 42 points in the final quarter.
With the game out of reach, Lakers coach JJ Redick pulled his starters midway through the fourth.
Standout Performances
Coby White: 36 points, shooting an efficient 12-of-17 from the field.
Matas Buzelis: Career-high 31 points, proving his potential as a rising star.
Josh Giddey: Nearly unstoppable all-around with 15 points, 17 assists, 10 rebounds, and 8 steals.
The Bulls’ explosive offense and defensive intensity in the second half proved too much for the Lakers, securing them a statement win.
LeBron James return
LeBron James made his highly anticipated return to the Los Angeles Lakers lineup on March 22, 2025, after missing seven consecutive games due to a groin strain. The injury, which he sustained on March 8 in a matchup against the Boston Celtics, had sidelined the Lakers’ superstar for over two weeks. Fans and analysts closely monitored his recovery, as the Lakers have been battling for playoff positioning in a competitive Western Conference.
In his first game back, James played 31 minutes and contributed 17 points, six rebounds, four assists, and three steals. While it wasn’t his most dominant performance, he showed flashes of his usual brilliance. However, his return wasn’t enough to prevent the Lakers from suffering a 146-115 loss to the Chicago Bulls. Despite the defeat, having James back on the court was a major positive for the team, as they look to build momentum heading into the final stretch of the regular season.
Speaking after the game, LeBron admitted to feeling “a little rusty” but emphasized that he was pleased to be back on the court and contributing to his team. He acknowledged that regaining full rhythm and conditioning after an injury-related absence takes time, but he remains confident that he will quickly return to top form.
Looking ahead, James and the Lakers will face the Orlando Magic on March 24, marking another opportunity for him to get back into a rhythm. The Lakers have a packed schedule in the coming weeks, with crucial games against teams like the Indiana Pacers, Memphis Grizzlies, and Golden State Warriors. James’ presence will be vital as the team pushes for a strong finish to the regular season and aims for a deep playoff run.
As of now, LeBron is listed as probable for the upcoming game against the Magic, indicating that he is expected to play but will continue to be monitored for any lingering effects from his injury. The Lakers’ medical staff will likely manage his minutes carefully to avoid any setbacks as he works his way back to full strength.
With LeBron back in the lineup, Lakers fans will be hoping that the team can regain momentum and make a strong push for the postseason. All eyes will be on James in the coming games as he looks to shake off any remaining rust and lead the Lakers down the stretch.
Lakers vs. Bulls: A Historical Overview
The rivalry between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Chicago Bulls is one of the most iconic matchups in NBA history. While the two teams are not considered traditional rivals, their encounters have been significant, especially due to the legendary players who have represented both franchises over the years.
Regular Season Head-to-Head Record
The Lakers and Bulls have met 164 times in the regular season as of March 2025. The Lakers have historically dominated the series, leading with 96 wins, while the Bulls have secured 68 victories.
Despite the Lakers’ overall edge, the Bulls have had periods of success, particularly during the 1990s when Michael Jordan led the franchise to six championships. On the other hand, the Lakers’ dominance spans multiple eras, with legends like Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Shaquille O’Neal, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James playing pivotal roles in shaping their success.
Playoff Matchups: A Look Back
While the two teams have only met in the playoffs once, it was a defining moment in NBA history.
1991 NBA Finals: The Lakers and Bulls clashed in the NBA Finals, marking the first time Michael Jordan led his team to the championship stage. The series was historic, as it marked the transition of power from the Lakers’ Magic Johnson-led Showtime era to the Bulls’ Jordan era.
The Bulls dominated the series, winning 4-1, securing their first-ever NBA Championship and beginning their dynasty. Jordan was named Finals MVP, averaging 31.2 points, 11.4 assists, and 6.6 rebounds per game.
Since then, the two teams have not met in the playoffs, mainly because they are in separate conferences (Lakers in the Western Conference, Bulls in the Eastern Conference).
Total Historical Record (Regular Season + Playoffs)
When combining both regular season and playoff encounters, the Lakers and Bulls have faced off in 192 total games. The Lakers hold a dominant lead in the all-time series with 113 wins, compared to the Bulls’ 78 victories.
Recent Games and Current Form
Most Recent Matchup:
The Lakers and Bulls last met on March 22, 2025, in a game where the Bulls secured a 146-115 victory.
Next Scheduled Game:
The two teams are set to face off again on March 27, 2025, at 5:00 PM PDT in Chicago.
Legacy and Iconic Players
While the Lakers have historically been the more successful franchise, both teams have played host to some of the greatest players in NBA history.
Lakers Legends: Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Shaquille O’Neal, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James
Bulls Legends: Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, Derrick Rose
Even though the Lakers have more championships (17) compared to the Bulls (6), their single Finals meeting in 1991 remains a pivotal moment in NBA history.
