The Chicago Bulls have recently shared a concerning update regarding Zach LaVine’s foot injury. The two-time All-Star guard has been out since November 30 due to a sore right foot that happened after a game against the Boston Celtics on November 28. LaVine was expected to be out for a week, but the latest reports from the Bulls indicate a more serious situation.
A press release by the Bulls reveals that LaVine is dealing with inflammation in his right foot, which will require a longer recovery period. Medical experts have advised a treatment plan, and LaVine will likely miss another 3-4 weeks of play. This news raises concerns about his availability for the rest of the year.
Injury Update: Zach LaVine will require an additional estimated 3-4 weeks to treat his current right foot inflammation.
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) December 7, 2023
This foot issue has impacted LaVine’s performance this season. His career has previously been affected by issues with his left knee which included several surgeries since 2017. LaVine has averaged 21.0 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 3.4 assists in 18 games this season, which is his lowest scoring since joining the Bulls.
Bulls’ Zach LaVine will miss an additional 3 to 4 weeks to treat right foot inflammation.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) December 7, 2023
LaVine is currently in the second year of his massive five-year contract, worth approximately $215 million, which he signed in the summer of 2022. Despite this, rumors are suggesting that he is dissatisfied in Chicago and also considering a trade.
Zach LaVine reportedly has no market right now
The future of Zach LaVine with the Chicago Bulls remains uncertain as trade rumors are increasing. LaVine’s high-profile reputation and the Bulls’ slow start to the season seem to be limiting the market for the guard. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski has reported that the lack of interest in LaVine is due to his huge contract and recent performance struggles.
LaVine’s contract will increase for four more years at an average annual value of around $45-46 million which is a major challenge for potential trade deals. Also, his current performance (averaging 21 ppg) and shooting career lows from the field and three-point range have led teams to question his ability to win games. This is a common situation in the NBA, where highly-paid players are often difficult to trade.
“There is not a market for Zach LaVine right now.”@wojespn with the latest on LaVine and the Bulls 👀 pic.twitter.com/r4stqcKkor
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) December 1, 2023
Interestingly, the Bulls have managed a 3-1 record in LaVine’s absence, compared to their 5-13 record when he was playing. This could influence the team’s strategies and decisions regarding LaVine’s future with the franchise.
Wojnarowski also stated that teams are unwilling to acquire LaVine as a primary or even secondary player because of his salary in the context of the new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). This situation is similar to Bradley Beal’s trade scenario, where high expectations and salary demands complicated potential deals.