SUMMARY
- Zach LaVine's injuries, leading to a prolonged absence, have raised questions about his future.
- Chicago Bulls might be strategically keeping LaVine out until the trade deadline.
As the NBA trade deadline approaches, the Chicago Bulls are facing crucial decisions regarding the future of star guard Zach LaVine, as reported by K.C. Johnson of NBC Sports Chicago. LaVine, who has been dealing with ankle and foot injuries, is currently out and is not expected to be re-evaluated until two weeks after his injury.
This recovery time has sparked questions about whether LaVine has played his last game with the Bulls, especially with the February 8 trade deadline just around the corner. The season has been challenging for LaVine, his injuries have limited his ability to maintain a consistent presence on the court.
Zach LaVine has possibly played his last game with the Bulls, per @KCJHoop.
The #Bulls could be ‘protecting their asset’ by having LaVine sit until the trade deadline. pic.twitter.com/1uCFQ3SUry
— Die-Hard Chicago Bulls Fans (@DieHardCBfans) January 26, 2024
LaVine missed 17 games earlier in the season due to a right foot injury. His situation was further complicated by an ankle sprain that happened on January 18. LaVine’s absence was felt during the Bulls’ recent practices and in their 141-132 loss against the Los Angeles Lakers, where he was present but did not participate.
“I think the thing that’s hard that I’m not always privy to in the front office is to have a deal, it takes two.” Coach Billy Donovan discussing LaVine’s future with the Bulls said.” So you can sit there and want to do a lot of different things, but maybe the asking price is too much for it. Or there’s just nothing there. Someone may not be interested.”
Johnson’s report suggests that the Bulls might be protecting their asset by keeping LaVine out until the trade deadline. This strategy could impact both his recovery timeline and his involvement in any trade discussions.
Pistons reportedly maintain interest in acquiring Zach LaVine
Despite the concerns surrounding LaVine’s injury and role in the Bulls’ lineup, the Detroit Pistons have shown interest in the star guard. The Athletic has reported initial talks between the Pistons and the Bulls about a potential trade for LaVine. However, no serious discussions have been reported as of yet.
As the NBA trade deadline comes near, the Pistons, currently holding the league’s worst record (5-39) are not just focused on their long-term future. Their recent acquisitions, including players like Danilo Gallinari and Mike Muscala, suggest that they are accelerating their rebuilding process.
The Chicago Bulls and Detroit Pistons are reportedly talking about a deal which would see Zach LaVine end up in Detroit while Bojan Bogdanović would end up in Chicago.
The Bulls also would like to add a young player to the deal as well. #SeeRed #BullsNation pic.twitter.com/9rUe9GIvPG
— Bulls On Tap (@BullsOnTap) January 25, 2024
LaVine’s contract which includes big payments over the next two seasons and a player option for 2025-26 is a problem for any team. Also, his injury history adds a risk factor in any potential deal.
Despite these challenges, the Pistons’ are still interested in LaVine as per NBA insider Marc Stein. They seem to be looking for immediate improvement, with LaVine potentially playing a key role. In the coming weeks, it will become clear where LaVine will continue his NBA career.