Pau Gasol Returns, Lakers Win

Pau Gasol hadn’t played in an NBA game this season — until Thursday night. In a nationally televised game against the Chicago Bulls, Gasol scored 24 points, pulled down 13 rebounds and dished out three assists as the Lakers beat the Bulls 108-93.

Gasol, who was out due to injury, didn’t skip a beat. He hit 9-of-15 field goal attempts and all six of his free throws. Kobe Bryant chipped in 21 points, nine rebounds and eight assists, while Ron Artest had 15 points, five rebounds, three assists and three steals.

The Bulls were never really in the game. They trailed by six after one, by 11 after 2 and by 17 heading into the fourth and final stanza. Derrick Rose led the way with 20 points and six assists in 38 minutes.

The Lakers are now 9-3 on the season. With Gasol back in action and the rest of their team healthy, don’t be surprised if L.A. goes on an extended winning streak to move into the top spot in the Western Conference.

Pau Gasol and Kobe Bryant were together again (Image: Zuma Press)