Why is Zach Lavine Not Playing Tonight? Who is Zach Lavine?
by Sangamithra
Updated Nov 23, 2023
Why is Zach Lavine Not Playing Tonight?
Zach LaVine is not playing tonight due to ongoing foot soreness, as reported by Julia Poe of the Chicago Tribune. Despite being initially listed as probable, the shooting guard has been ruled out for the game against the Thunder. This marks LaVine's first absence of the season. The decision to sit him out is likely a precautionary measure to address the persistent foot soreness and prevent any potential worsening of the condition.
This absence opens up opportunities for other players in the Bulls' lineup, with Jevon Carter, Ayo Dosunmu, and Patrick Williams expected to see more playing time. However, the offensive leadership will likely fall on the shoulders of DeMar DeRozan and Nikola Vucevic in LaVine's absence.
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Who is Zach Lavine?
Zach LaVine is an American professional basketball player currently playing for the Chicago Bulls in the NBA. Standing at 6 feet 5 inches and weighing 200 pounds, he primarily plays as a shooting guard or small forward. LaVine was chosen in the first round of the 2014 NBA draft as the 13th overall pick by the Minnesota Timberwolves and later traded to the Chicago Bulls in 2017.
Throughout his career, LaVine has achieved notable success, earning two NBA All-Star selections in 2021 and 2022. He is also a two-time Slam Dunk Contest champion, winning in 2015 and 2016. In addition to his achievements in the NBA, LaVine won a gold medal as part of the U.S. Olympic team during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
LaVine's basketball journey began in the Seattle area, where he gained recognition as the top high school player in the state. He played college basketball for the UCLA Bruins for one season before entering the NBA draft. Known for his athleticism and scoring ability, Zach LaVine has become a prominent figure in the NBA, showcasing his skills on both ends of the court.
Full Name
Zachary Thomas LaVine
Date of Birth
March 10, 1995
Birthplace
Renton, Washington, U.S.
Height
6 ft 5 in (1.96 m)
Weight
200 lb (91 kg)
Position
Shooting guard / Small forward
High School
Bothell (Bothell, Washington)
College
UCLA (2013–2014)
NBA Draft
2014: 1st round, 13th overall pick
NBA Debut
2014
NBA Team(s)
Minnesota Timberwolves (2014–2017), Chicago Bulls (2017–present)
NBA All-Star
2021, 2022
NBA All-Rookie Team
Second Team (2015)
NBA Slam Dunk Contest Wins
2015, 2016
Olympic Gold Medal
2020 Tokyo (Team USA)
Current Team
Chicago Bulls (as of 2023)
Zach Lavine's Early Life
Zach LaVine, born in Renton, a suburb of Seattle, Washington, came from a family with a strong sports background. His father, Paul, played professional football in both the USFL and NFL, while his mother, CJ, was a softball player. At the age of five, LaVine's interest in basketball sparked after watching Michael Jordan in the movie Space Jam. He later admired Kobe Bryant and modeled his own game after these basketball icons.
Growing up, LaVine practiced in his family's backyard, emulating the NBA's Three-Point Shootout, guided by his father. He attended Bothell High School, playing as a point guard and developing his skills, including hours of dunking practice after his shooting routines. By his junior year, he had grown to 6 feet 3 inches.
In his senior year at Bothell High School, LaVine's basketball prowess flourished. He averaged impressive stats, scoring 28.5 points per game, earning him accolades such as the 2013 Associated Press Washington State Player of the year and Washington Mr. Basketball. Nationally recognized as a first-team Parade All-American, he also showcased his talents by winning the slam dunk contest at the Ballislife All-American Game. LaVine's stellar high school career positioned him as a four-star recruit and the 12th-ranked shooting guard in the nation in 2013.
Zach Lavine Career
Zach LaVine, born on March 10, 1995, in Renton, Washington, began his basketball journey with a passion for the game inspired by Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant. Raised in a sports-oriented family, his father played professional football, and his mother was a softball player.
LaVine attended Bothell High School, where he excelled as a point guard, earning accolades such as the 2013 Associated Press Washington state player of the year and Washington Mr. Basketball. His impressive high school career led him to commit verbally to the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
At UCLA, LaVine showcased his skills, drawing comparisons to NBA star Russell Westbrook. Despite a shooting slump during his freshman year, he earned a spot on the Pac-12 All-Freshman Team. LaVine declared for the NBA draft in 2014, getting picked by the Minnesota Timberwolves as the 13th overall pick.
During his time with the Timberwolves, LaVine won the Slam Dunk Contest in 2015, displaying his athleticism. In 2017, he was traded to the Chicago Bulls, where he continued to make a significant impact. LaVine achieved his first All-Star selection in 2021 and maintained a stellar performance, signing a five-year max contract extension in 2022.
Throughout his career, LaVine has overcome challenges, including a torn ACL in 2017. He has consistently showcased his scoring ability, earning multiple career-high scoring games, and became a key player for the Chicago Bulls in their 2022 playoff appearance. Additionally, LaVine won a gold medal with Team USA at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. His career is marked by continuous growth and impressive achievements, solidifying his status as a prominent NBA player.
Zach Lavine Trade
The market for Zach LaVine, the Chicago Bulls' standout player, seems limited, according to NBC Sports Chicago. The Bulls, currently struggling with a 5-10 record, have been considering trading LaVine, given their recent challenges and his expiring contract. The Athletic's Shams Charania and Darnell Mayberry reported increased openness to a potential trade, as LaVine desires to play for a winning franchise.
However, negotiations may take time, with a more realistic target being the February 9 trade deadline. LaVine's impressive stats, averaging 21.3 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.3 assists, make him an appealing addition for contending teams, with the Philadelphia 76ers, Miami Heat, and Los Angeles Lakers mentioned as potential suitors.
Despite the limited market currently, the dynamic situation could evolve as teams become more desperate toward the trade deadline. The 28-year-old, who signed a substantial five-year, $215 million deal in 2022, brings both talent and financial considerations to the negotiating table, making his trade an intriguing storyline in the NBA landscape.
Zach Lavine Age
Zach LaVine was born on March 10, 1995, making him 28 years old as of 2023. The talented American professional basketball player has garnered acclaim for his skills, athleticism, and scoring ability in the NBA. LaVine's career began with the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2014 before being traded to the Chicago Bulls in 2017.
Despite facing challenges like a torn ACL in 2017, LaVine has consistently demonstrated his prowess on the court. His achievements include multiple NBA All-Star selections, a Slam Dunk Contest championship, and a gold medal with Team USA at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo.
Zach Lavine's Net Worth
Zach LaVine, the American basketball star, boasts a net worth of $70 million. Drafted 13th overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2014, he later joined the Chicago Bulls in 2017. Recognized for his talent, LaVine earned a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 2015 and was named the NBA Rising Star Challenge MVP in 2016.
His slam-dunk prowess secured victories in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest in 2015 and 2016. LaVine's success extends to the global stage, where he clinched a gold medal with the US men's basketball team at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo.
Zach Lavine Stats
2014–15
Minnesota
77
40
24.7
.422
.341
842
2.8
3.6
.7
.1
10.1
2015–16
Minnesota
82*
33
28.0
.452
.389
.793
2.8
3.1
.8
.2
14.0
2016–17
Minnesota
47
47
37.2
.459
.387
.836
3.4
3.0
.9
.2
18.9
2017–18
Chicago
24
24
27.3
.383
.341
.813
3.9
3.0
1.0
.2
16.7
2018–19
Chicago
63
62
34.5
.467
.374
.832
4.7
4.5
1.0
.4
23.7
2019–20
Chicago
60
60
34.8
.450
.380
.802
4.8
4.2
1.5
.5
25.5
2020–21
Chicago
58
58
35.1
.507
.419
.849
5.0
4.9
.8
.5
27.4
2021–22
Chicago
67
67
34.7
.476
.389
.853
4.6
4.5
.6
.3
24.4
2022–23
Chicago
77
77
35.9
.485
.375
.848
4.5
4.2
.9
.2
24.8
Career
555
468
32.4
.465
.384
.833
4.0
3.9
.9
.3
20.5
All-Star
2
0
19.5
.588
.400
.500
3.5
3.0
1.5
.0
12.5
Year
Team
GP
GS
MPG
FG%
3P%
FT%
RPG
APG
SPG
BPG
PPG
Why is Zach Lavine Not Playing Tonight - FAQs
Zach LaVine is sidelined due to ongoing foot soreness, a precautionary measure to address the issue.
Zach LaVine is an American NBA player, a two-time Slam Dunk Contest champion, and an Olympic gold medalist.
LaVine was drafted in 2014 by the Minnesota Timberwolves, later traded to the Chicago Bulls in 2017.
As of 2023, Zach LaVine plays for the Chicago Bulls in the NBA.
The Chicago Bulls are considering a trade due to the team's struggles and LaVine's expiring contract.