Chicago Bulls: How committed are they to each starter?
By Ryan Heckman
Shooting Guard Zach LaVine
Commitment Level: 50%
Let’s not forget that just last summer, the Bulls nearly lost LaVine to the Sacramento Kings. But, following an offer sheet, the front office decided to match. To this day, I still believe the decision to match was simply because both Forman and Paxson knew they could do no better in free agency.
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While LaVine is coming off the best season of his career, he still has not yet reached that level of being a star. He could very well get there, but I think the front office was scared, more than anything, when they matched that deal last summer.
LaVine’s contract is looking more and more friendly in comparison to other deals that have been (and will be) handed out. Now that he’s proved he is completely over the ACL tear and put together a strong campaign, his deal actually looks very tradable.
I would not be shocked if this organization traded LaVine over the summer, or even prior to the draft on Thursday night. However, I would be extremely disappointed. I feel as though LaVine has much more growing to do, despite having somewhat of a coming-out party last year.
The fact that he was much more of a facilitator over this past season makes him even more valuable, considering the current state of the point guard position. LaVine averaged a career-high 4.5 assists last season while still putting up close to 24 points to game. He’s a valuable player, period, and the organization should throw a tad more vocal support his way.