Chicago Bulls All-Star guard Zach LaVine is traveling to Los Angeles to get further evaluation on his left knee but still hopes to participate in next Sunday’s All-Star Game, sources told ESPN.
LaVine has been experiencing discomfort in the knee for several weeks, and although a January MRI showed no structural damage, there’s certainly a level of concern within the organization, sources said.
LaVine was chosen to the second All-Star Game in his career and is averaging 24.6 points, 4.9 rebounds and 4.5 assists so far this season. LaVine and Bulls teammate (and fellow All-Star) DeMar DeRozan have been the league’s highest-scoring team duo this season, averaging 52.3 points, according to ESPN’s Stats & Information.
LaVine appeared to struggle through Friday’s victory over Minnesota, shooting 5-of-14 and noticeably wincing on the floor. LaVine sat out Saturday’s victory over Oklahoma City, and he missed consecutive games against Indiana and Philadelphia on Feb. 4 and 6. He will miss games on Monday and Wednesday ahead of the All-Star break, sources said.
The Bulls are withstanding numerous injuries to the backcourt this season, including Lonzo Ball (meniscus tear) and Alex Caruso (fractured wrist), who are out several weeks after undergoing surgery. The team also lost forward Patrick Williams to a wrist injury early in the season, although he’s expected to return this year.
Through it all, the Bulls are 36-21, one game behind first-place Miami in the Eastern Conference standings.
ESPN NBA reporter Jamal Collier contributed to this report.
