Bulls’ Efforts to Repair Bond with Zach LaVine Centered on Key Goal

The Chicago Bulls are actively working to repair their relationship with Zach LaVine following a period marked by harsh rumors and contentious discussions over the past few seasons. According to Joe Cowley of The Chicago Sun-Times, the 29-year-old LaVine is now on better terms with the Bulls, having spent much of the summer addressing his issues with head coach Billy Donovan.

This represents a serious shift from their strained dynamic in December, when reports indicated that LaVine’s relationship with Donovan was “professionally fractured” and that he had been unhappy with Donovan since the previous season. While it’s positive that the Bulls are making efforts to reconcile with LaVine, there appears to be a strategic motive behind these efforts.

If LaVine and the team can publicly demonstrate a harmonious relationship and if he performs well at the start of the season, the Bulls might be able to trade him. However, many NBA teams might be skeptical of this tactic and may not have the financial flexibility to take on LaVine’s substantial contract, which still has $138 million owed over the next three years.

The Bulls’ situation is further complicated by their recent losses. They parted ways with their leading scorer, DeMar DeRozan, who was traded to the Sacramento Kings in exchange for Chris Duarte and two second-round picks. Additionally, the team also traded Alex Caruso to Oklahoma City in return for guard Josh Giddey, weakening their defensive capabilities. With these changes and LaVine’s hefty contract, the Bulls face a challenging period as they pass their roster and future plans.