There is never a shortage of excitement and people when LeBron James is involved.
The United Center faithful filled the seats on a beautiful Chicago night as the wounded Bulls (31-37) tried not to lose their 10th straight and stop the league best Cleveland Cavaliers (55-15) from winning their sixth straight.
Although, they weren't fully on top of their games, the Cavs- behind 29 points, 11 rebounds and 7 assists from James- were able to hold off a spirited Bulls effort, winning 92-85.
From the six minute pregame handshake and photo routine, all eyes were on James and he didn't disappoint.
With everyone clearing cap space for his services come next season, for one night, the UC crowd could envision what it would be like if this would be his permanent venue.
"I'm here," James said after being asked would he want to keep playing here. "They can see me until I catch the plane."
James Johnson (16 points, 8 rebounds), who played James all night, wasn't discouraged or intimidated as he was continually stared down and toyed with while defending him.
"He puts on his shoes the same way I do," said Johnson. "He puts on his jersey the same way I do. I'm not scared of nobody. He's just a great player. You have to give credit where credit is due."
James was held fairly in check, until the fourth quarter, where he scored 13 points to help close the game.
Taj Gibson continued his strong play with 20 points and 13 rebounds.
The loss dropped the Bulls to 10 straight. But, now the schedule gets a little easier after 9 straight games against teams with winning records, when they take on the Philadelphia 76ers (24-45) on Saturday night.
The Bulls should get a lift as Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah plan to return.
"I'll probably just fight through it," said Rose of the strained left wrist that has held him out for four straight games. "I'm hoping to play."
GAME NOTES
LeBron James became the youngest player to reach the 15,000 point plateau, doing so with a pair of free throws in the fourth quarter.
James acknowledged the UC crowd for cheering for his accomplishment;
"To respect the way I play the game when they've seen the greatest basketball player of all time, with tonight it's real humbling."
DENG OUT 2-3 WEEKS
Luol Deng will miss atleast two weeks because of a strained right calf.
Coach Vinny Del Negro says Deng's calf locked up while jogging and an MRI showed more fluid than there was previously.
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