CHICAGO — In a heart-stopping conclusion, Josh Giddey’s spectacular halfcourt shot at the buzzer clinched a dramatic 119-117 win for the Chicago Bulls against the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday night. This unforgettable finish is likely the most riveting the NBA has witnessed this season.
Incredible 3-pointers by Patrick Williams and Coby White in the final seconds swung the game in Chicago’s favor. Trailing by five points with just 12.6 seconds left, the Bulls staged a comeback for the ages, capping a game that will be remembered for its extraordinary climax.
Giddey was instrumental, posting a triple-double with an impressive 25 points, 14 rebounds, and 11 assists. Coby White led Chicago’s scoring with 26 points, while Kevin Huerter contributed significantly as well with 21 points. The Bulls, fresh off a streak of success, have now bagged victories in nine of their last 11 games — this one standing out as a notable high point.
Initially, it seemed clear that the Lakers were set to cruise to victory. With Austin Reaves managing a pair of free throws, they stretched to a seemingly insurmountable 115-100 lead with only 13 seconds on the clock. However, Chicago wasn’t resigned to defeat.
Williams kicked off the comeback with a crucial 3-pointer for the Bulls with only 10 seconds to spare. Giddey’s key interception from LeBron James facilitated White’s second stunning 3-pointer with 6 seconds remaining, propelling the Bulls briefly into the lead at 116-115.
The excitement heightened as Reaves responded with a drive to put Los Angeles back on top, 117-116, leaving a mere 3 seconds for a response. Against all odds, the Bulls executed a last-gasp play, with Giddey etching his name into the history books via a remarkable halfcourt game-winner that led to him being mobbed by delighted teammates.
Reaves was the standout performer for the Lakers, amassing 30 points. Supporting him, Luka Doncic achieved 25 points, complemented by 10 rebounds and seven assists, while Jaxson Hayes added 19 points, and James played a dual role with a combination of 17 points and 12 assists.
Game Insights:
Lakers: Following a triumphant buzzer-beater victory in Indiana courtesy of James, the Lakers have now been on the losing end in eight of their last twelve outings.
Bulls: A team previously appearing listless has found vigor and tenacity, exemplified by their refusal to concede defeat.
Crucial Moments:
The Lakers were in prime position with a solid 13-point lead halfway through the closing quarter before the chaotic series of events unfolded.
Statistical Highlights:
Both White and Huerter showcased their shooting prowess, each completing 5 of 10 from beyond the arc, while Giddey connected on 4 of his 9 attempts.
Next on the Schedule:
The Lakers will conclude their four-game road trip with a matchup against Memphis on Saturday. Meanwhile, the Bulls are set to welcome Dallas on the same evening.