Lakers Struggle Despite LeBron James’ Return, Fall to Bulls 146-115

LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Lakers welcomed back superstar LeBron James and Rui Hachimura for the first time in weeks but fell short in a lopsided 146-115 loss to the Chicago Bulls at Crypto.com Arena on March 22, 2025. The defeat marked the end of a challenging five-game homestand, further complicating the Lakers’ playoff ambitions.

James, who scored 17 points on 7-of-16 shooting, had missed two weeks due to a strained left groin. Hachimura returned after a significant absence due to left knee tendinopathy but struggled, putting up only five points in 18 minutes on the court.

Despite James’s presence, the Lakers had a difficult time contending with Chicago, particularly in the second half, where they were outscored 81-53. All five Bulls starters scored in double figures, with Coby White leading the charge with 36 points, while rookie Matas Buzelis added a career-high 31 points. Josh Giddey nearly achieved a quadruple-double, finishing with 15 points, 17 assists, 10 rebounds, and 8 steals.

“We got 12 games to position ourselves in the postseason,” James said after the game. “We pretty much can control our own destiny if we win ballgames and not have to be in the play-in.”

The Lakers currently hold a 43-27 record, slotting them at No. 4 in the Western Conference. Although they trail the second-place Houston Rockets by just 2.5 games, they also find themselves only three games ahead of the seventh-seeded LA Clippers, who lead the play-in tournament.

Lakers coach JJ Redick reflected on the urgency of the situation, asserting that securing the No. 6 seed or better is critical for the team to avoid a must-win scenario in the play-in tournament. Redick stated, “These next 12 games, you’ve got to refind your way. It’s a perpetually flowing river that we’ve all of a sudden run into a beaver’s dam.”

Luka Doncic led the Lakers with 34 points, including 29 in the first half. However, the star also highlighted frustrations after committing seven turnovers. “I can’t be losing the ball seven times. That’s way too many for me,” he remarked.

Following the game, Hachimura criticized the team’s defensive performance, emphasizing, “Our defense was awful today. We weren’t locked into our game plans and everything. We didn’t execute. They were getting everything—3s, transition, layups.”

This defeat underscores the importance of tightening their defensive strategies as the Lakers approach the playoffs. With eight out of their last 12 games on the road—including upcoming matchups against the Orlando Magic and Memphis Grizzlies—L.A. faces a daunting schedule ahead.

Hachimura’s recovery remains a concern as he continues to be limited to 20 to 24 minutes per game. He estimated his knee is currently at “70-80%,” revealing, “I don’t think we have that time to get back to normal.”

James also expressed cautious optimism regarding his recovery. “I just take it day by day. I hope it’s behind [me], but I don’t want to go too far into the future,” he said.

As the Lakers navigate the final stretch of the regular season, their ability to capitalize on the talent of James and Doncic and improve their defense will be essential for avoiding the play-in tournament and securing a strong playoff position.