LeBron returns to Lakers' lineup in lopsided loss to Bulls

LeBron James returned to the Los Angeles Lakers' lineup for Saturday night's 146-115 blowout defeat to Chicago Bulls.

James started the contest alongside Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, Jaxson Hayes, and Dorian Finney-Smith. He finished with 17 points, six boards, four assists, and three steals in 31 minutes of action.

Bulls guard Coby White led all players with 36 points. Meanwhile, Josh Giddey added 15 points, 17 assists, 10 boards, and eight steals to finish just short of a quadruple-double.

The NBA's all-time scoring leader has missed the Lakers' past seven games after suffering a left groin strain March 8 against the Boston Celtics.

James was averaging 25 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 8.5 assists before the injury.

The Lakers lost four of seven games without James.

Los Angeles also got back Rui Hachimura for Saturday's contest. The Japanese forward had five points and two boards off the bench in 18 minutes.

Hachimura missed the past 12 games with a left knee injury. The 27-year-old entered Saturday's game averaging 13.3 points and 5.2 rebounds this season.