Billy Donovan praises Zach LaVine for wanting to fit into what the Chicago Bulls have going right now

Donovan praises the guard's team-first attitude and how it's helping elevate the Chicago Bulls to new heights.

© David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

It can be easy for a player of Zach LaVine’s stature to make demands upon his return from an extended absence. After all, he’s a nine-year pro, a two-time All-Star, and someone who has established himself in the league as a bona fide bucket-getter.

 However, Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan had nothing but praise for the way LaVine handled his return to the team after missing 17 straight games due to a sore right foot.

Trying to figure it out

LaVine played his third game back from the foot ailment and had his best game of the season, tallying 25 points, 13 rebounds, seven assists, three steals, and a block. More impressive was that he did all these in the flow of the offense rather than forcing his shots or trying to do too much.

Donovan noted how easy it would have been for LaVine to demand more touches or take over the game upon his return, but instead, he embraced his role within the team and made sure to make an impact in all areas of the game.

“It speaks more to who Zach is as a person and a teammate that he’s coming in there and trying to figure out how he can help the team and the group,” Donovan said.

“I think for him, wanting to fit in, wanting to help the group, he’s trying to figure that out. [He’s not] just coming in and saying, ‘Hey, I’m going to be aggressive.’ He’s trying to figure out, ‘How can I be aggressive and still help the team?’ I think he’ll figure that out.”

Zach LaVine stuffed the stat sheet 🔥 pic.twitter.com/5yT2Cc5KSU

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) January 11, 2024

Reading the game

LaVine recognizes that he, DeMar DeRozan, and Nikola Vucevic don’t have to do all the scoring. With Coby White emerging as a legitimate offensive threat and Alex Caruso able to knock them down when the ball swings his way, the Bulls are loaded with offensive weapons.

For LaVine, it’s not just about scoring; he’s also focused on reading the game and getting everyone involved.

“Obviously, trying to overcome some bumps and hurdles, trying to get my rhythm back, but we’re competing and sharing the ball. My offense will come. Just keep building it up the next couple of games, and I’ll be where I want to be,” LaVine shared.

"That's a winning play by Zach LaVine" — @JamalCollier pic.twitter.com/f7nJtGYr4v

— Will Gottlieb (@Will_Gottlieb) January 11, 2024

Billy Donovan reveals that Zach LaVine may stay with the Chicago Bulls