Zach LaVine to make return to Bulls amid trade rumors

Guard Zach LaVine is still a member of the Bulls and they still value what he has to offer on the court.

With that in mind, the Bulls and LaVine are likely both excited that he’s making his return from a right foot injury Friday vs. the Hornets. LaVine has missed 17 straight games.

“I’m back man. It feels good,” LaVine told reporters. “I’ve been away for a month. I feel good. Being hurt is never good and rehabbing is some of the worst things in the world. I’m glad I’m able to do what I love. The foot feels strong. It feels better. Hopefully, it stays that way.”

Of course, LaVine has been the subject of trade rumors since the second week of the season. Both LaVine and the Bulls are said to be willing to move on. But so far, the Bulls reportedly cannot find any takers.

LaVine’s return from injury could change all that.

The Lakers, 76ers, and Hornets are all believed to at least have some interest in LaVine, with sources telling Hoops Wire that the floundering Warriors could be a possible dark horse.

Agent Rich Paul said that he isn’t trying to steer LaVine to a certain team.

“It’s not one team,” Paul told Sam Amick of The Athletic. “I don’t have a specific destination for Zach. I want what’s best for Zach and his family. When you have a guy playing the game, you want him to be able to play the game happy, whether that’s in Chicago or somewhere else.”

Center Nikola Vucevic will also return to the Bulls on Friday after missing the previous five games with an adductor strain. LaVine and Vucevic are each expected to be on a minutes restriction.