Zach LaVine suffers hand contusion but will likely play in Friday's game vs. Oklahoma City Thunder

Fortunately for the Bulls, LaVine isn't expected to miss any time.

Alonzo Adams-USA TODAY Sports

With DeMar DeRozan suffering a right quadriceps strain, the last thing the Chicago Bulls need is an injury to another key guy. However, that is what the Bulls announced in their injury report heading into Friday's game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, as Zach LaVine suffered a right-hand contusion. 

Fortunately for the Bulls and their fans, the high-flyer isn't expected to miss any time.

LaVine is on a roll

LaVine got off to a sluggish start this season as he recovered from an offseason knee surgery. However, it appears he finally hit his stride over the last four games, scoring 41, 36, 27, and most recently, 38 points in a loss to the Washington Wizards. 

LaVine has certainly looked energetic in these games as well, displaying the athleticism and explosiveness that made him so popular prior to his knee injury.

Zach getting crafty with it.

@ZachLaVine | @NBCSBulls pic.twitter.com/PgMZg8nFml

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) January 12, 2023

Lavine's three-point shooting has also been eye-catching as the UCLA product has splashed in a total of 25 trifectas in these last four games, highlighted by his 11-make explosion against Philadelphia.

Friday's game against the Thunder will be a tough one for Chicago as they face a desperate Oklahoma City squad seeking to catch up to the pack in the Western Conference. The Bulls will need their star guard at his best if they are to have any chance of leaving with a win, and LaVine's scoring ability is key in that regard.

DeRozan is doubtful to play

DeRozan is set to miss his second game this season following the quad strain he suffered in the game against the Boston Celtics. Without the veteran All-Star, the Bulls will have to find someone else to step up and fill in for the team's leading scorer. 

LaVine is likely to take on a bigger role in DeRozan's absence, but he'll need help from his supporting cast if they are going to overcome Oklahoma City's roster of talented young players led by the explosive Shai Gilgeous-Alexander who is coming off a 37-point outing in a win against the Philadelphia 76ers.