Rival league executives doubt the Zach LaVine-Chicago Bulls partnership will last

Rival executives don’t think Zach LaVine will stay with the Bulls for too long.

© Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

Despite Zach LaVine’s lofty status as the Chicago Bulls’ most offensively-gifted player, rival executives do not believe him to be a cornerstone of the franchise for too long. According to NBC Sports Chicago’s insider, KC Johnson, he spoke to several franchise decision-makers during the NBA Draft Combine who expressed their skepticism regarding LaVine’s future in Chicago.

Grown tired of being in trade rumors

Johnson wrote that LaVine has apparently grown weary of being mentioned in endless trade rumors. Back in February, NBA insider Joe Cowley revealed that the New York Knicks and the Bulls engaged in conversations regarding a trade that had LaVine as the centerpiece, although that never gained any traction.

“Several rival executives who NBC Sports Chicago talked to at the combine are skeptical about the long-term marriage between Zach LaVine and the Bulls,” Johnson wrote. “LaVine, who has been loyal to the Bulls, has grown tired of consistently landing in trade rumors, although talk of the New York Knicks’ interest at the trade deadline was overstated.”

Can LaVine lead the Bulls into the future?

The Bulls believe in LaVine’s talent so much that they gave him a five-year deal worth over $200 million. Although the high-flyer had a solid year this season, posting 24.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, the Bulls had an up-and-down campaign and failed to make it to the Playoffs.

This brings a question to the forefront: can LaVine be the leader to take his team into the postseason and beyond? He has proven that he is an electric offensive player, but will need to focus on fine-tuning the rest of his game to truly become an impact player in this league.