NBA Injury Report: Is Zach Lavine Returning Tonight vs Hornets After Missing 18 Games Due to a Foot Injury?

The Chicago Bulls don’t boast a great run this season. They have a 15-21 record and are trailing behind in fourth place in the Central Division. On paper, they are undoubtedly a great team, with their star trio consisting of Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, and Nikola Vucevic. However, they haven’t reached their full potential due to an array of injuries afflicting the players.

LaVine, in particular, has missed 18 games this season thanks to a foot injury. He has been out since late November and his return was uncertain. Tonight, as the Bulls host the Hornets for a showdown, sources say that the 28-year-old might gear up for the game.

LaVine will come off the bench tonight

Taking to X, Bulls Insider K.C Johnson shared the news fans have been dying to hear: “Zach LaVine will play Friday, per LaVine.” Yes, you heard it right, from the man himself. LaVine will come off the bench in the much-anticipated comeback. However, he will be on a minutes restriction as a precautionary measure. This season has been frustrating for LaVine, who had a rough start before his injury.

In the 18 games he played, LaVine managed to average 21 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 3.4 assists. His points and assists have seen a dip ever since his rookie season with the Bulls in 2018. Hopefully, this return will turn the tide for the former NBA All-Rookie team star. He has been out since 28th November, recovering from a right foot inflammation. As per the consensus, his return might do more damage than good.

The comeback might throw off the balance

In the absence of LaVine and DeMar, Coby White was able to play more minutes and in the process displayed his incredible ability to lead the team in offense. On the other hand, we have Patrick Williams, whose usage also went up and he took on an offensive responsibility which worked well. Moreover, the Bulls had won the first three games that he missed, dispelling a five-game losing streak.

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This could be an indicator that they function better without him. LaVine’s return to the team runs the risk of destroying the momentum the players had developed while he was away. It will now depend on LaVine to show up and change the narrative. He will have a small window of opportunity to prove himself as the Bulls are rumored to have been on the lookout to trade him.

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Do you think LaVine’s return will be a blessing or a hindrance? Has the Bulls moved on from him in his long absence? Share your thoughts!