The Lakers blew a double-digit lead in the fourth quarter against the Bulls, but escaped the Staples Center with a two-point win after Zach LaVine missed a go-ahead jumper in the closing seconds.
The Lakers were short-handed without Anthony Davis or Kentavious Caldwell-Pope in the lineup on Friday, but held a 12-point lead with eight minutes left to play. Powered by LaVine’s 38, the Bulls made a late run to get within a point – and LaVine had a chance to put Chicago in the lead with less than five seconds remaining. With the Bulls trailing 116-115, LaVine elevated just inside the 3-point arc and had a clean look, but missed his shot, allowing the Lakers to hold on for the win.
LeBron James finished the game with 28 points, seven rebounds and seven assists, and Dennis Schroder and Montrezl Harrell each added 17 for the Lakers.
