Zach LaVine Claims He’s Being Unfairly Blamed For The Chicago Bulls’ Fallout During His Tenure

Zach LaVine (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
The Chicago Bulls have been trying to remain competitive in the Eastern Conference by acquiring several star players, such as Zach LaVine, in recent years. However, their plans have not worked out, and the situation has worsened as key players have become disconnected from the team.

According to NBA Insider Jamal Collier for ESPN, Zach LaVine’s dissatisfaction with the franchise has been growing. LaVine, who has been rumored to be of interest to several teams, is currently under a five-year, $215 million contract set to expire after the 2026–27 season.

LaVine has also felt singled out during film sessions and feels like he has taken too much blame for the team’s losing during his tenure — which has produced one playoff appearance in seven years — despite other roster failings. Donovan, meanwhile, believes he’s been trying to get LaVine to buy in to a more team-friendly playing style, according to sources, emphasizing the way the Bulls competed in LaVine’s absence last year as evidence for the team’s potential if LaVine fits within the system. Jamal Collier wrote this in his recent reports for ESPN.

Collier pointed out several reasons for the conflict, including LaVine’s disappointment with the team’s performance and the team’s displeasure with his decision to undergo season-ending foot surgery last year instead of attempting to return to the court.

Zach LaVine’s Latest Season with the Bulls Hampered by Foot Surgery

LaVine, who was chosen by the Minnesota Timberwolves as the 13th overall pick in the 2014 NBA draft, was traded to the Bulls in 2017. Since joining the Bulls, he has consistently delivered impressive performances for the team. However, his most recent season with the Bulls was unsatisfactory due to an injury, causing the two-time Slam Dunk Contest champion to miss several games. In February 2024, the Bulls announced that LaVine would undergo surgery on his right foot as part of his recovery. Despite this, the 2020 Olympic gold medalist averaged 19.5 points, 3.9 assists, and 5.2 rebounds in the 25 games he played in the 2023-24 season, as per StatMuse.

 

Despite all the trade drama, fans are still speculating about LaVine’s possible landing spot and eagerly anticipating the star player’s return to the court.