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Chicago Bulls Struggle with LaVine-DeRozan Discord

December 30, 2022
byTJ436 views

The Chicago Bulls were supposed to be on track for a high seed in the Eastern Conference and poise for a deep playoff run. They surrounded their two talented scorers—Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan—with excellent playmakers and capable defenders to improve their chances of making the NBA Finals for the first time since 1998.

However, the team is way off the top four with their 13-18 record for the season. Some will point to Lonzo Ball’s injury as one of the main reasons for their on-court struggles. Ball’s absence is significant because he’s their best floor general and one of their top perimeter defenders.

OKBET Chicago Bulls

His absence in the playmaking department is painfully visible in the team’s scoring. Only DeRozan, LaVine, and Vucevic consistently score in double digits this season. His defensive impact is easily felt as they allow the 13th-most points in the league.

However, OKBET players who have seen the Bulls play this season understand that the lack of on-court chemistry between LaVine and DeRozan is costing them games. They are both ball-dominant scorers who occupy similar areas of the floor, which causes spacing issues that defenders can take advantage of.

LaVine clears the air that he’s not trying to be the leading cause of their on-court troubles. Talking to The Athletic’s Shams Charania and Darnell Mayberry, he said he’s trying to save the team’s season by leading by example and showing up in important games.

The team has reportedly tried everything to make the pairing work. The two wing stars had one-on-one sitdowns where they tried to sort out their problems. The pressure is also mounting for Billy Donovan to make this pairing work as they did last season.

Lakers Are LaVine’s Favored Destination

However, time may be running out for these Chicago Bulls. Vucevic is increasingly likely going to test free agency, and reports surrounding LaVine and the Bulls aren’t painting an encouraging picture.

There are increasing reports that the guard—who just signed a five-year deal to stay with the Bulls last summer—is looking for a way out. Several teams are interested in his services, but LaVine preferred destination is reportedly the Los Angeles Lakers.

The Purple and Gold are the perfect trade partners for the Bulls. They can get plenty of cap room to make moves in the coming offseason. Russell Westbrook’s contract is expiring in the summer, and the cap they’ll get in return will allow them to build their bench.

LaVine will be joining a team with talented players. He’ll be able to find his shot with LeBron James and Anthony Davis running the show. While the bench needs work, the Lakers can finally compete with this new Big Three.

Read more: Lionel Messi Promises to Extend PSG Run



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