Zach LaVine’s first game against the Chicago Bulls in over eight years didn’t go as planned. He missed his first four shots and scored just eight points – his season low – in a 128-116 loss. But this wasn’t about stats. It was about closure.
“I wasn’t mad or upset,” LaVine said. “Maybe a little nervous. But there’s no bad blood.”
Instead of revenge, LaVine played with gratitude. Even after being traded in February, he stayed in the Bulls’ group chat, joking with old teammates. When the Bulls were in his hotel in Sacramento, he crashed their team meeting and said, “Don’t act like y’all ain’t known me before.”
The Trade That Felt Like a Graduation
LaVine’s exit from Chicago was friendly but sudden. On Feb. 2, while walking his son Saint near his California home, he got the call. Just days after having his third child he was traded to Sacramento.
“It wasn’t a surprise, but it wasn’t something I expected,” LaVine said.
He parted ways with the Bulls brass, including Jerry Reinsdorf and Artūras Karnišovas, with respect. The message was clear: Both sides need to grow.
DeMar DeRozan’s Role in the Reunion
DeMar DeRozan, LaVine’s former teammate, didn’t hesitate when the Kings called. After LaVine missed three calls on trade day, DeRozan finally answered and said: “Let’s do it.”
Their reunion in Sacramento hasn’t been smooth—DeRozan’s methodical style clashes with LaVine’s speed—but they both believe this time will be different.
“He’s playing the best basketball of his career,” DeRozan said of LaVine’s 24 points and 41% 3-point shooting pre-trade.
Chicago Will Always Be Home
LaVine’s legacy in Chicago goes beyond basketball. Drafted by the Timberwolves, he grew up with the Bulls—became a husband, father, and leader in the locker room.
Bulls coach Billy Donovan remembers finding LaVine at the Advocate Center late at night, shooting with his kids behind him. “He wore that jersey with pride” Donovan said.
Now in a Kings uniform, LaVine’s heart is still in Chicago.
“I love the city. Always will,” he said. “I gave everything I had here. No regrets.”