The Chicago Bulls are still in the midst of a rebuild as they try to climb the rankings in the Eastern Conference. Things are off to a rough start in 2020-21, with the Bulls getting blown out in their first two games and then losing in heartbreaking fashion to a struggling Warriors squad.
While the Bulls are struggling, star shooting guard Zach LaVine is taking on an important leadership role under new head coach Billy Donovan. According to K.C. Johnson of NBC Sports Chicago, LaVine gave a speech to his teammates after their second consecutive blowout loss to open the season, stressing “the need to stick together and keep working to develop good habits.” LaVine's leadership has been a bright spot to start this season in Chicago.
After the loss to the Warriors, LaVine stated his desire to step up his responsibility as the Bulls try to get out of their funk:
“I mean, nothing has been given to me. I’m going to fight through it. I think it starts with me. I have to approach it with the right attitude and try to lead this team and do the best I can. Regardless of what the outside people say or what the results may be, I have to step forward for our guys Each day is a new challenge. But I’m willing and ready for it.”
LaVine, 25, has improved every season after coming over from the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Jimmy Butler trade. During his first three-plus seasons in Chicago, LaVine has averaged 23.3 points, 4.6 rebounds and 4.1 assists in 33.3 minutes per game.
While the Bulls are off to a shaky start for the season, they do have ample time to turn things around. However, the upcoming schedule is looking pretty tough, so Chicago needs to make sure the hole doesn't get too deep.
LaVine will do his best to avoid a deep rut. If this Bulls season goes haywire, though, he could find himself on the trade block ahead of his free agency in 2022. He could also ask for a trade himself, but there are no indications he has interest in doing that.
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