Bulls don’t see Zach LaVine’s injury as a ‘long-term
The Chicago Bulls have raced out to a promising start to the 2021-22 season, sitting atop the Eastern Conference standings.
However, star guard Zach LaVine suffered an injury to his left knee, but dodged a bullet as an MRI on Saturday morning revealed no structural damage.
Read: Joel Embiid – We Haven’t Played Our Best Basketball Yet
“Well, obviously very optimistic and very grateful that it wasn’t something more,” Bulls coach Billy Donovan said via ESPN. “That’s why they wanted to do the MRI, so he’ll continue to get therapy and we’ll re-evaluate him after a period of time. I don’t think it’s something that’s long-term, which is a good thing. So the biggest thing is how does he respond to therapy, treatment, those kinds of things.
“I think once they see how he responds to the therapy there will be a clearer view of when a return date will be possible.”
LaVine is in line to be re-evaluated early next week. After he begins his rehab work, there will be a more defined timetable for his return. The Bulls will likely take the precautionary route to avoid a setback.
The 26-year-old is putting together a highly productive campaign, averaging 24.9 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.2 assists while shooting 49% from the floor and 41.2% from 3-point range.
Want $250 to bet on NBA futures?
His absence will need DeMar DeRozan to take on a more prominent offensive role. DeRozan has been putting together an impressive first year, ranking eighth with 25.7 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.8 assists while shooting 48.8% from the field and a career-high 35.2% from beyond the arc.
