3 reasons the Chicago Bulls should let Zach LaVine walk

Bulls can do better in the draft

To recap, the Chicago Bulls are preparing to match any offer to a guy who is an average shooter, poor defender, halts ball movement, all while coming off a serious knee injury. That seems like a great idea (cue overdramatic eye-roll).

As a result, they run the risk of hamstringing this team in the future. However, one way they could avoid this fate is by using the draft to snag LaVine’s replacement. One player who seems like he could be that player is Kevin Knox out of Kentucky. Although, there are many players the Bulls could pick at either No. 7 or No. 22 who would fit the bill.

Since there are a number of quality “wing” players available in this draft, the Bulls should go that route — especially since it would be significantly cheaper. Not only that, but the Bulls could likely land a player with considerably more upside. At this point, LaVine is a “known quantity.” He’s been in the league for a few years and has been the same player for the most part.

Therefore, it’s unreasonable to think that somehow a max-contract is going to turn him into a franchise player. Consequently, why not take a chance on a player who could turn out to be a franchise player, and use the extra money to fill out the roster with quality pieces?

Next: 3 Bulls who could be traded this offseason

Bottom Line

Zach LaVine is certainly an exciting player. However, he is not the player that will lead the Bulls to the promised land. In fact, he’s likely not the player to lead them to the playoffs. Therefore, the Bulls would be unwise to commit so much to what amounts to a decent role player. Absent an incredibly team-friendly deal, the Bulls should let LaVine walk.