LeBron James returns as Lakers lose to Bulls

The Los Angeles Lakers suffered a 108-118 loss at home to the Chicago Bulls in an NBA fixture played late on Sunday, March 26, 2023.

The Lakers playing in front of a packed crowd desperately needed a win to aid their late playoff push.

The Bulls also battling for a spot in the play-in tournament were able to settle down early and establish a three-point lead at the end f the first quarter.

Bulls shooting guard Zach Lavine was on fire in the second quarter as they increased their leaf to eight at the halftime break.

It was back and forth between the two sides in the third quarter as the Bulls extended their lead to 12 points.

The Lakers tried to mount a late comeback in the fourth quarter but the Bulls held on for a 10-point victory on the road.

American professional basketball player LeBron James returned to action for the Los Angeles Lakers.

James was out for a month due to an injury suffered in the Lakers' win away against the Dallas Mavericks late in February.

The 38-year-old James made history in his 1,680th career NBA game for four franchises.

It was the second time in his career coming off the bench in a regular season NBA fixture.

The last time James did not start was back in the 07/08 season when he led the Cleveland Cavaliers to the playoffs.

In his first game back from injury, James took some time to get going on the offensive end of the floor.

The NBA All-time top scorer recorded 19 points, eight rebounds and three assists in 30 minutes of action.

James made six of his 11 shots, was unable to convert from three-point range and was seven of eight from the free throw line.

James returns to action with the Lakers when they travel to face the Bulls in the return leg scheduled for Tuesday, March 28, 2023.