Bulls' Zach LaVine to have season-ending foot surgery

CHICAGO (AP) — Chicago Bulls star Zach LaVine is going to have season-ending surgery on his right foot, creating several major questions for the franchise ahead of the NBA’s trade deadline and into next year.

LaVine and his agency, Klutch Sports Group, decided to go ahead with surgery after consulting with the team’s medical staff and external medical professionals, the Bulls revealed on Saturday. The twice-named All-Star is scheduled for surgery next week and is anticipated to be sidelined for four to six months.

“Coach Billy Donovan claimed that the decision was made out of concern for his health. He genuinely believes that every possible effort was made to return to the game. However, the foot discomfort reached a point where he felt he couldn’t perform at his best or contribute significantly, which was quite frustrating and challenging for him,” he explained.

Injury Update: The next phase in his recovery process will see Zach LaVine undergoing surgery on his right foot.

LaVine will be out 4-6 months.

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LaVine, set to turn 29 in March, was absent for 17 games from Nov. 30 to Jan. 3 due to inflammation in his right foot. Chicago had a sluggish start to the season but managed a 10-7 record while LaVine was sidelined.

The guard, known for his high scores, came back to play against Charlotte on January 5th, which led to the Bulls winning five out of seven games. However, he injured his right ankle during a 116-110 win against Toronto on January 18th.

Donovan stated that LaVine’s ankle is no longer a problem, however, his foot was not reacting positively to treatment.

“Donovan said, “I feel sympathy for him on a personal level because, as I’ve mentioned before, I understand his deep desire to play and to be present on the field. His inability to do so genuinely distresses him.”

In June 2017, LaVine was traded to his current team from Minnesota. He then re-signed with his team in July 2022, securing a five-year contract valued at approximately $215 million. This season, he has averaged 19.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.9 assists over 25 games. In each of the past four years, he has consistently scored at least 24.4 points and participated in a minimum of 58 games.

“Four to six months is genuine surgery,” said teammate Alex Caruso. “It’s unfortunate for him, especially since he faced another issue not long ago. You empathize with him.”

This is yet another harsh setback for a Chicago team that has suffered significantly from injuries in the past few seasons. Lonzo Ball has been absent from the NBA since January 14th, 2022, due to a left knee injury. Additionally, Patrick Williams, the Bulls’ No. 4 pick in the 2020 draft, is sidelined with a left foot injury.

Donovan stated that he was unaware of the precise details about LaVine’s surgery. On Saturday, LaVine did not interact with the media.

His recovery timeline implies that he may face limitations at the start of the upcoming season as he gradually regains his health after the surgery.

“Nobody is going to rescue us. We still need to step onto the field, play games, and put in the work,” stated Caruso prior to Saturday night’s game against Sacramento. “Tonight is the 50th game, and we still have 32 more to play after this.”

LaVine’s injury also puts the Bulls in a difficult position before Thursday’s NBA trade deadline. Ahead of their game with the Kings, Chicago held a 23-26 record.

If Chicago decides to dismantle its roster, Caruso and DeMar DeRozan would probably draw some attention. Retaining Caruso and DeRozan could allow the team to recruit additional support to lighten the increased burden on its guards, due to injuries to LaVine and other players.

“Ultimately, the decision is theirs to make,” stated Caruso. “As a member of this team, my responsibility is to fulfill my role, which includes playing basketball every night.”