Billy Donovan says he hasn't discussed anything regarding a trade with Zach LaVine

"My talks with him have been more centered around his frustration with being out."

© Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports

Chicago Bulls coach Billy Donovan continues to resist any talks involving Zach LaVine and the possibility of him playing elsewhere, saying the only conversations he’s had with the team’s highest-paid player revolve around his health and ability to return to the floor.

After missing 17 games due to a sore right foot, LaVine has missed the last four games because of a sprained ankle. The latest medical update has the two-time All-Star missing more time as the sprain has also again inflamed his foot.

Frustrated about being out

According to Donovan, the former UCLA star is frustrated about returning to the sidelines because of another injury. The high-leaper has missed 21 games so far, which will rise as he rehabilitates his foot. While there are plenty of trade rumors involving LaVine, Donovan said he hasn’t discussed any of that with his ace guard, preferring to focus on what they’re dealing with now.

“I haven’t talked to him about anything with the rumor piece of it,” Donovan said.

“I would just guess that with him being in the league for 10 years that these things would kind of happen. My talks with him have been more centered around his frustration with being out.”

KC Johnson reporting about the Zach LaVine trade rumors.pic.twitter.com/43u0iA4KEt

— ✶ Ⓜ️𝕒𝕣𝕔𝕦𝕤 ▶️ ✶ (@_MarcusD3_) January 26, 2024

Can’t catch a break

Donovan added that he’ll sit down with LaVine and have an honest conversation with him regarding a trade if a formal proposal arrives. Until such time, Donovan said he’ll operate under the assumption that LaVine will be a Bull moving forward. This scenario is becoming likely given LaVine’s massive contract and recent injuries that have diminished his numbers.

“I don’t want to use the word ‘venting’ because that would be too strong, but just the disappointment of, ‘Man, I can’t catch a break,’” Donovan said.

“He just wants to be out there. He’s probably missed half the year or close to it. I think it comes from a good place, my talks [with him].”

My money is still on no Zach LaVine trade by the deadline.

HOWEVER … what today’s Pistons report reminded us is that unexpected suitors can always emerge as the reality of the deadline creeps closer.

The pressure is on, and this could also mean the Bulls lowering asking price.

— Bleacher Nation Bulls (@BN_Bulls) January 25, 2024

The report points out players the Chicago Bulls must avoid at the trade deadline