Chicago Bulls star Zach LaVine is set to hit NBA free agency this summer. He's eligible for a massive extension worth $212 million, but there is a good chance the Bulls will have to retain him on the open market instead of just flat out handing him a new deal without competition from other teams.
The premise that Zach LaVine's contract expiration would swiftly result in a lucrative extension with Chicago has dissolved, sources told B/R. However, the Bulls are still considered likely to retain LaVine on the open market.
The reason the Bulls could face competition for his signature is due to the emergence of DeMar DeRozan. LaVine was seen as the second-fiddle to DeRozan, who often took over late in games while LaVine watched from afar. As BR notes, that's exactly why rival organizations believe he would potentially be willing to leave Chicago rather than take a new contract right away.
One specific note has been frequently repeated by league figures with knowledge of the situation: The fourth quarter brilliance that put DeRozan in the MVP conversation often left LaVine watching from the corner as DeRozan isolated in the midpost.
While Chicago was supposed to be LaVine's team, featuring new running mates for the Bulls' All-Star centerpiece, LaVine was routinely rendered to a supplementary role alongside DeRozan.
This is not to suggest a rift between LaVine and DeRozan, but it provides necessary context as to why LaVine is suddenly viewed as a gettable free agent from rival front offices, as opposed to a straightforward extension case.
The Los Angeles Lakers and Portland Trail Blazers have already been linked to Zach LaVine ahead of free agency. He's set to undergo a knee procedure this summer but he'll be ready to go for training camp, whether that be with the Bulls or elsewhere.
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