LeBron James came back Tuesday, but the Cleveland Cavaliers remain winless this preseason. The Chicago Bulls spoiled James' return to action. Chicago won 108-94 at the Quicken Loans Arena to improve to three- two, while Cleveland slipped to zero- four.
Justin Holiday top-scored for Chicago with 28 points. The 28-year-old also had 11 rebounds, one assist, and three steals. Finnish sensation Lauri Markkanen put up 18 points off the bench. Another second unit spark was Denzel Valentine who tallied 14 points. The veteran Robin Lopez added 10 points for the Bulls.
Same LeBron James
LeBron James had a terrific performance for the Cleveland Cavaliers despite missing action for almost two weeks. James registered 17 points, five rebounds, three assists, one steal, and one block. However, Cavaliers head coach Tyronn Lue was right when he said that the four-time MVP is a bit rusty. James had eight turnovers in that contest, plus four personal fouls.
James got sidelined when he accidentally stepped on the foot of rookie Cedi Osman during one of the Cavaliers' practices. The injury prevented him from practicing and playing, though he was capable of working out.
Aside from James, Derrick Rose also stood out for the Cavaliers. Rose recorded 13 points, five rebounds, five assists, and a steal facing his former team.
Before they took on the Bulls, the youngest MVP in NBA history said he has no issue with the organization. He understands that it is all about business. Rose was the face of the franchise in Chicago for nearly a decade. The relationship ended in 2016 when the Bulls traded him to the New York Knicks.
Preseason closers
The next time the Chicago Bulls and the Cleveland Cavaliers play, it is to end their respective preseason campaigns.
On October 13, the Bulls are hosting the Toronto Raptors at the United Center. They have the opportunity to finish with a 4-2 record if they succeed versus the Raptors. The Cavaliers are closing their preseason on the same day as Chicago. They will head to the Amway Center to visit the Orlando Magic. As mentioned, the Cavs are yet to capture a victory this preseason.
It is uncertain if LeBron James will participate in the game against Orlando.
A rematch with the Raptors on October 19 will begin the Bulls' 2017-18 regular season. The Cavaliers, on the other hand, are going to meet the Boston Celtics on October 17 to start their chase for another championship.
