Zach LaVine is out for 3-4 Weeks due to right foot inflammation, as disclosed by the team on Wednesday. LaVine, plagued by injuries over the years, is having his toughest full season with the Bulls. His scoring averages (21) and field goal percentage (44.3%) are at their lowest during his time with the Bulls, discounting the 2017-18 season marked by recovery from a torn ACL.
Despite LaVine’s absence, the Bulls have performed admirably, securing victories in the initial three games without him. This includes an overtime victory against the formidable Milwaukee Bucks, a game where fellow Bulls All-Star DeMar DeRozan was also absent. Chicago stands at 8-14 for the season, currently outside the Eastern Conference’s top 10.
Zach LaVine Out 3-4 Weeks
Trade talks surrounding LaVine have been circulating for weeks. However, this injury setback complicates matters. LaVine is in the second year of a massive five-year, $215 million contract, potentially deterring interested teams in the evolving landscape of the league’s spending dynamics.
Considering the mechanics, the timing might not be all bad for Chicago. While most teams struggle to match salaries for a player of LaVine’s magnitude, December 15 will see most free agents, who inked deals over the summer, becoming tradable. Later on, January 15 will open up further opportunities, including deals involving some significant signings like those of the Lakers, a team linked to LaVine. This timeline positions LaVine to return just amid these dates, offering him a window to showcase his abilities to contenders before the trade market intensifies.
However, any injury poses a risk for Chicago. LaVine’s extended and potentially burdensome contract might become even harder to trade if a suitable offer doesn’t materialize now, considering his age and productivity. The Bulls are keen on LaVine’s swift and complete recovery, not just for team performance but also to optimize potential trade returns.”
Comments