Zach LaVine reiterates commitment to the Chicago Bulls despite the persistent trade rumors

LaVine has stated his loyalty to the Chicago Bulls.

© David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

Whenever trade rumors involving the Chicago Bulls are discussed, Zach LaVine’s name always pops up. While jarring at times, the high-leaping guard reiterated his commitment to the team and desire to remain a Chicago Bull. In a recent interview with ESPN, LaVine was adamant that his management team isn’t putting out trade rumors or whatnot to make his way out of Chi-Town.

Speculations

There’s been a lot of talk about the fit of LaVine and his co-stars on the Bulls, DeMar DeRozan and Nikola Vucevic. Critics speculate whether the three can co-exist based on the results of last season when the Bulls’ offensive rating plunged to 24th in the league, and the team missed the NBA Playoffs. 

This has led to reports of LaVine being dangled in trade talks with other teams. But such rumors have been quickly shut down by LaVine.

“My camp isn't putting them out,” LaVine said. “I committed to the Bulls when I signed my five-year deal. So until I'm not, I'm committed to the Bulls. I've always brought professionalism and consistent play, and that's what I'll continue to do.”

Zach with the first bucket of the preseason 👀@ZachLaVine | @NBCSChicago pic.twitter.com/01i99JiaDt

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) October 8, 2023

Down for Chi-Town

Despite hearing his name in trade talks, the former UCLA star says there’s nowhere else he’d rather be.

“I love Chicago; I've always wanted to be in a place that wanted me, and Chicago showed me that. But obviously trade rumors are part of the business. Are they wanted? No. But I'm a grown man, I've been traded before. I know how to deal with them. You have to take it that way; it's a business, so I don't get too upset,” he concluded.

Flight 8 ✈️@ZachLaVine | #SeeRed pic.twitter.com/3Cc7JvteH6

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) October 5, 2023