All eyes are on Zach LaVine, who rolled his ankle and wasn't able to return to the game

Zach's injury comes at the most inopportune time.

© Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports

The Chicago Bulls are monitoring the status of All-Star guard Zach LaVine, who tweaked his ankle in the third quarter after he stepped on the foot of Toronto Raptors big man Jontay Porter on his way to the basket. 

The high-flying wingman tried to push through the injury but eventually decided he couldn’t, checking out of the game for good early in the fourth.

Tried to give it a go

Zach tried to tough it out to help the Bulls in a close game in the fourth quarter. However, after a two-minute stint, he checked out of the game and wouldn’t return. The Bulls hope LaVine's injury isn't severe, but they will be cautious with their star player.

“I could just tell when he was back in there, I didn’t feel like he was moving great,” Donovan said.

“I know he was trying. I think he wanted to keep going, just to keep himself fresh.”

Zach Lavine is heading to the locker room after twisting his ankle 😬 pic.twitter.com/E2vNDpL3Ph

— Ahn Fire Digital (@AhnFireDigital) January 19, 2024

Recently returned from a lengthy absence

LaVine recently returned from a 17-game absence caused by an inflammation in his right foot. The team has yet to release an official diagnosis of LaVine’s injury, but if it was an ankle sprain, he may have to sit out many games.

This news comes at a critical point in the season for the Bulls, who are currently fighting for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Chicago has gone 5-2 since LaVine’s return, but the guard has yet to rediscover his form, averaging only 15.6 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game in that stretch.

Video of Zach LaVine rolling his right ankle at Toronto. pic.twitter.com/xZkREuTJaq

— Darnell Mayberry (@DarnellMayberry) January 19, 2024