Lakers Secure Road Win Over Bulls Amidst Injury Challenges

CHICAGO (Azat TV) – The Los Angeles Lakers secured a decisive 129-118 victory over the Chicago Bulls at the United Center on Monday night, January 26, 2026, largely propelled by an exceptional 46-point outing from superstar Luka Dončić. This road win is particularly notable as both franchises are navigating significant injury concerns, underscoring the Lakers’ ability to perform under pressure and Dončić’s continued MVP-caliber play.

Dončić Dominates in Chicago Victory

Luka Dončić was the undisputed engine of the Lakers’ offense, pouring in 46 points, grabbing seven rebounds, and dishing out 11 assists against the Bulls. His performance included a crucial eight three-pointers, consistently stifling Chicago’s attempts to close the gap. Dončić’s scoring prowess was complemented by strong contributions from his teammates, particularly off the bench, which proved vital in maintaining the Lakers’ lead throughout the final three quarters.

Rui Hachimura emerged as a critical secondary scorer, adding 23 points off the bench, highlighted by multiple timely three-pointers that helped Los Angeles weather Chicago’s surges. Veteran forward LeBron James contributed 24 points, with 20 of those coming in the first half, alongside five rebounds, shouldering the early offensive load. Other notable performances included Jake LaRavia with eight points, five rebounds, four assists, and three steals, and Jarred Vanderbilt, who provided seven rebounds and two assists in a crucial defensive role. Jaxson Hayes also made an impact with eight points, four rebounds, and two blocks, including a highlight-reel steal and dunk late in the game that solidified the Lakers’ control.

Lakers’ Defensive Stand and Offensive Surge

The Lakers’ victory was built not only on offensive firepower but also on a robust defensive effort, particularly in the first half. Los Angeles shot an impressive 56.1% from the field and connected on 16 of 33 attempts from beyond the arc. Defensively, they forced the Bulls into 15 turnovers, with 12 occurring in the first half alone, converting these into 23 points on the other end. This suffocating defense allowed the Lakers to establish and maintain a double-digit lead for significant stretches of the game.

After a competitive start where the Bulls briefly held a four-point advantage, the Lakers closed the first quarter on a decisive 9-0 run. This momentum carried into the second period, where the run extended to a 16-2 surge. LeBron James and Rui Hachimura provided offensive sparks, while Jarred Vanderbilt, Jaxson Hayes, and Hachimura combined for an excellent defensive effort, accumulating two blocks, seven rebounds, and three assists. By halftime, the Lakers had built a 13-point lead. While Chicago managed to cut the deficit to a single point in the third quarter with a 29-12 run, the Lakers responded decisively with an 8-0 run, fueled by Dončić’s 20 points in the quarter and Hachimura’s timely triples, ensuring they entered the fourth quarter with a 15-point cushion.

Injury Front: Bulls and Lakers Navigate Absences

Both teams entered the contest with significant players sidelined due to injury. The Los Angeles Lakers continued to play without their second-leading scorer, Austin Reaves, who has been sidelined since Christmas Day with a left calf strain. Lakers Head Coach JJ Redick confirmed that Reaves is expected to return during the team’s current eight-game road trip, though not against the Bulls. Jake LaRavia, initially listed as questionable with a left quad contusion, ultimately suited up and contributed to the Lakers’ win. Adou Thiero also remained out for Los Angeles with a right MCL sprain.

For the Chicago Bulls, the game marked the return of Josh Giddey, who had missed 11 consecutive games with a hamstring strain. Giddey came off the bench, having not started in his two games since returning to the lineup. However, the Bulls were without their second-leading assist man, Tre Jones, who was listed as doubtful with a left hamstring strain and is expected to miss several weeks. Zach Collins (right first toe sprain) and Noa Essengue (left shoulder surgery) were also out for Chicago. The previous matchup between these two teams, nearly a year ago, saw the Bulls edge out the Lakers 119-117, thanks to a stunning half-court buzzer-beater from Josh Giddey, adding a layer of historical context to this latest encounter.

This comprehensive victory for the Lakers, spearheaded by Dončić’s individual brilliance and a collective defensive effort, highlights the team’s resilience in overcoming significant injury setbacks. Their ability to maintain composure and execute effectively on the road against a challenging opponent, even with key players sidelined, signals a strong strategic depth and potential for sustained success.