Zach LaVine listed as questionable for the front end of a back-to-back

Zach may not suit up for their Bulls' game against the San Antonio Spurs.

© David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

The Bulls will likely be without Zach LaVine for their Friday game against the San Antonio Spurs. LaVine is listed as questionable due to what the team calls "left knee injury management."

Load management

Don't be surprised if LaVine does not suit up against the Spurs, as the team continues to be cautious with their All-Star wingman, who underwent surgery on his left knee during the offseason. 

The 27-year-old missed the Bulls' first two games but has since played their last three. His previous game, in particular, was remarkable as he piled up 28 points, six rebounds, five assists, and a steal. He also showed a deft touch from beyond the arc, making six three-pointers.

Zach is 5-7 from deep tonight. The man can shoot. pic.twitter.com/dE6MNyI5I9

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) October 27, 2022

Chicago has a back-to-back set, with the first matchup being against the Spurs. Although the team of iconic head coach Gregg Popovich has a 3-2 record this season, San Antonio will most likely be in the hunt for the top pick of next year's draft.

The second leg of the Bulls' back-to-back will be no pushover. The team will host the Philadelphia 76ers — a team that features two elite scorers in MVP contender Joel Embiid and one-time league MVP James Harden — on Saturday. The Bulls may opt to bring LaVine back for this highly-anticipated showdown.

Still getting into a rhythm

Despite the tremendous performance, LaVine admitted that he still isn't where he wants his body to be. He didn't play five-on-five during the offseason while rehabbing his surgically-repaired knee.

"Didn't play a lot in the offseason; still getting my feet wet. Getting used to the offense. Legs feel good; obviously, I'm missing a couple of shots at the rim. I'm still trying to get that a little back; that will come. The pullups are still working. I'm just getting my touch around the rim and everything. I think it's coming back, being able to play through contact. I'm getting there," said LaVine.

Just like we drew it up 🙃@ZachLaVine | @NBCSChicago pic.twitter.com/zPGUeesZYB

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) October 27, 2022