Josh Giddey and the Chicago Bulls trounced the Los Angeles Lakers 146-115 on Saturday night at Crypto.com Arena, led by Coby White’s 36-point (12-17 FG, 6-9 3 PT) outing. Rookie forward Matas Buzelis also notched a career-high 31 points (12-18 FG, 5-10 3 PT) in 30 minutes.
The Lakers got dominated defensively, as the Bulls shot 58.3 percent from the field and 46.3 percent from deep. Chicago also won the rebounding battle 42-35.
The 22-year-old tallied 15 points (5-11 FG, 1-2 3 PT) with 17 assists, 10 rebounds, and eight steals. He also led all players in this game in assists and steals.
After the game, the Bulls made the historic announcement that Giddey is the first player in NBA history with his line.
Doncic scored 34 points (10-18 FG, 8-13 3 PT) with eight rebounds and six assists, while Reaves had 25 points (9-13 FG, 3-7 3 PT) with five assists and two boards.
Conversely, LeBron James didn’t perform to his usual standard in his return from injury. The four-time NBA champion totaled 17 points (7-16 FG, 1-2 3 PT) with six rebounds, four assists, and three steals. He had missed the previous seven contests with a groin strain.
Up next for the Lakers (43-27) is a four-game road trip starting with their game against the Orlando Magic on Monday. Los Angeles dropped to fourth place in the Western Conference after Saturday’s loss, a half-game behind the Denver Nuggets (44-27) and a half-game ahead of the Memphis Grizzlies (43-28).
