The Los Angeles Lakers are starting to find their rhythm-and Monday night in Chicago was another strong step forward. Fresh off a win over Luka Doncic’s former squad, the Dallas Mavericks, the Lakers rolled into the United Center and handled business against the Bulls, pulling out a 129-118 victory.
That’s now four wins in their last five games, and they’re 3-1 on their current eight-game road trip. At 28-17 on the season, the Lakers are quietly gaining momentum-and a big reason why is the man wearing No.
Luka Doncic continues to put on a show in purple and gold. Against the Bulls, he delivered yet another jaw-dropping performance: 46 points, 11 assists, and seven rebounds on 15-of-25 shooting, including 8-of-14 from deep.
He completely took over in the third quarter, scoring 20 of his 46 during a stretch when Chicago had trimmed the Lakers’ lead to just one. That surge could’ve swung the game, but Doncic had other plans.
He responded like a superstar does-by closing the door.
This was Doncic’s eighth 40-point game of the season, the most in the league. He’s now tied for the most games in Lakers franchise history with at least 45 points and 10 assists-a remarkable feat considering the legends who’ve worn that jersey. Every night he suits up, Doncic seems to be rewriting the record books.
But this win wasn’t just about Luka. LeBron James was his usual steady force, adding 24 points, five rebounds, three assists and a steal. Even in a game where Doncic was clearly the headliner, LeBron’s presence and control of the tempo were felt throughout.
Marcus Smart chipped in with 12 points, while Rui Hachimura provided a major spark off the bench. Rui’s 23 points came on efficient looks, and he added a bit of everything-two boards, an assist, a steal, and a block. The Lakers’ depth is starting to shine, and Hachimura’s ability to step in and deliver big minutes gives them another dimension.
As for the Bulls, they didn’t go down quietly. Chicago put together a balanced offensive effort, with six players scoring in double figures.
Coby White led the way with 23 points, five rebounds, and six assists, continuing his strong play as a lead guard. Nikola Vucevic turned in a double-double with 18 points and 11 boards, plus five assists.
Ayo Dosunmu added 20 points and two steals, while Josh Giddey came off the bench to contribute 19 points, six rebounds, and seven assists in a well-rounded outing. Jalen Smith added 13 points, and rookie Matas Buzelis chipped in 11.
The Bulls made their run in the third quarter, cutting the lead to one and giving the home crowd something to get loud about. But ultimately, they couldn’t contain Doncic, and the Lakers’ offensive firepower proved too much to handle.
For Los Angeles, this road trip is starting to look like a turning point. With Doncic playing at an MVP level and the supporting cast stepping up, the Lakers are looking more and more like a team ready to make noise in the West.