Zach LaVine's Injury Diagnosed as Sprained AC Joint; Bulls Star's Status vs. Nets TBD
October 31, 2024
Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine suffered a shoulder injury that has been diagnosed as a sprained left AC joint, according to K.C. Johnson of Chicago Sports Network.
Johnson noted that LaVine is listed as questionable heading into the Bulls' matchup with the Brooklyn Nets on Friday.
The 29-year-old sustained the injury during Chicago's 102-99 win over the Orlando Magic on Wednesday, but was able to finish the game. X-rays on his shoulder after the contest came back negative, per ESPN's Jamal Collier.
LaVine finished with a season-low 11 points in the victory over Orlando, shooting 2-9 from the field and hitting just one of his four attempts from behind the arc. He was able to pull down 10 rebounds and dish out three assists.
Bulls head coach Billy Donovan revealed that he checked with LaVine at halftime regarding his left shoulder and the two-time All-Star explained that he'd play the first five minutes of the third quarter to see if he could finish the contest (via Johnson). Donovan didn't hear from LaVine again for the rest of the game.
Despite his inconsistent performance against the Magic, the 29-year-old has started his 2024-25 campaign on a high note. In five appearances, he's averaged 23.0 points and 6.4 rebounds per game while shooting 51.3 percent from the field and 43.6 percent on three-pointers.
LaVine's name has been involved in trade rumors throughout the year, as he was reportedly offered to several opposing organizations in negotiations during the offseason.
Instead, he remained with Chicago and has helped lead the team to a 3-2 start to the season. The Bulls have also been buoyed by a strong defense, owning the seventh-best defensive rating in the association (via NBA.com).
While LaVine's availability is uncertain against Brooklyn, the Bulls will still attempt to secure their third straight win on Friday. Tip-off is at 7:30 p.m. ET.
