Well, folks, the 2017-18 season is now coming to an end, and it seems the season’s end for Zach LaVine may be even sooner.
Speaking to the media today ahead of the Bulls upcoming matchup Wednesday against the Denver Nuggets, LaVine spoke on his latest two-game absence and hinted at the possibility that he may miss twelve more.
LaVine, who practiced in at least the non-contact portions Tuesday, seems to be lobbying to play at least one more game, however, how that benefits the team, or him for the matter, is anyone’s guess.
“I think it might be collective,” LaVine said, “I hope it is at least.”
That’s because regardless of the Bulls not so hush hush tanking aspirations and a seemingly lost season, LaVine still wants to play.
“If he feels good, we want him back,” Hoiberg said. “If there is any concern at all, we’ll take the cautious approach and continue with the plan as it is.”
In addition, Hoiberg declared Kris Dunn out, and Dunn wore a walking boot to protect turf toe in his right big toe. He did not participate in practice.
It appears Dunn, the other key trade piece received by the Bulls for Jimmy Butler, will also be sitting out the rest of the 2017-18 season in order to protect the future of a team in the midst of a promising rebuild.
Zach LaVine 2017-18 In A Nutshell
LaVine has averaged 16.7 points in 27.3 minutes on 38.3 percent shooting over 24 games.
“I’ve had parts where I’ve been frustrated and I’ve had parts where I’ve been happy with my play and the team’s play,” LaVine said. “I didn’t have any expectations really coming into it. I was excited to get back on the court. It’s been good overall just from the standpoint of playing and getting my rhythm back, getting with the team.”
Hoiberg obviously acknowledged LaVine’s inconsistency since returning from a torn ACL suffered during the 2016-17 campaign, while also praising the spark LaVine provided an often times lost and overwhelmed young Bulls squad.
“He has shown a lot to us as far as on the practice floor,” Hoiberg said. “There have been some ups and downs in the games. I don’t think there’s any denying that. But you have to see the overall package with the athleticism and the ability to shoot with range.
“I know he’s looking forward to a summer to hopefully get that rhythm back. And we are as well.”
