Zach LaVine’s absence due to a foot injury, exacerbated during an In-Season Tournament game against the Celtics, has created a significant impact on the Chicago Bulls’ season. Initially projected to be out for one week, LaVine’s recovery timeline extended to an additional 3-4 weeks due to right foot inflammation. Surprisingly, the Bulls have managed a 4-0 record in his absence, showcasing a more fluid and unselfish style of play.
Before LaVine’s injury, the Bulls endured a five-game losing streak, accompanied by a bottom-10 net rating in the league. However, the team’s recent surge without LaVine has sparked optimism, with notable wins, including one against the formidable Milwaukee Bucks. The Bulls have demonstrated a more cohesive brand of basketball, marked by season-highs in team assists.
Coby White last 4 games:
24 PTS | 6 AST | 5 3P
19 PTS | 9 REB | 5 AST
31 PTS | 9 REB | 6 AST
23 PTS | 7 AST | 4 3PBulls have won 4 in a row. https://t.co/GuALxCyPYD
— StatMuse (@statmuse) December 9, 2023
LaVine, averaging 21 points, 3.4 assists, and 4.9 rebounds before the injury, has traditionally been a near-40% three-point shooter. His slower start to the season led to speculation about his future with the Bulls. Bulls insider K.C. Johnson reported that executive VP Artūras Karnišovas sees LaVine’s absence as an opportunity to evaluate the team’s dynamics without their star scorer, contemplating whether a rebuild or a retooling is necessary.
Coby White’s emergence has been a bright spot amid the challenging season, averaging a career-high 15.6 points and shooting a career-best 41.7% from three-point range. In the absence of LaVine, White has stepped up, showcasing his scoring abilities and fulfilling the team’s expectations.
Despite being a talented scorer, LaVine’s absence has paradoxically led to increased offensive production by the Bulls. The team has surpassed their season average in points per game in each of the four post-LaVine injury wins.
Four 20-point scorers in tonight's win 👏 pic.twitter.com/Jlk2RYvBOG
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) December 9, 2023
The market for LaVine, however, has diminished over the past season and a half due to his perceived disinterested play and defensive shortcomings. His current foot injury further complicates potential trade scenarios, potentially giving trade partners more leverage against the Bulls. The lowered trade value may prompt the Bulls to focus on retooling rather than seeking significant rebuilding assets.
The possibility of the Bulls moving on from LaVine has been looming, with rumors of discontentment, on-and-off court drama, and uninspired play. The team now faces the task of exploring the market for LaVine, hoping for a favorable trade that could maximize the potential of their remaining players.
In conclusion, while LaVine’s absence has led to surprising success for the Bulls, it also raises questions about his future with the team. The likelihood of him continuing as a Chicago Bull appears uncertain, with trade considerations and potential restructuring on the horizon.
Leave a Reply