© David Banks-USA TODAY Sports
Zach LaVine feels great, but head coach Billy Donovan says his knee will be managed
In this story:
Zach LaVine feels great after making his season debut on Saturday against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Although the Chicago Bulls got routed in their home opener, LaVine looked good, scoring 23 points in 28 minutes. It bodes well for the squad after LaVine missed the team's first two games due to soreness in the knee he had arthroscopic surgery on in the offseason.
Back in action
LaVine shared that he is still getting his rhythm back after not playing any organized basketball during the offseason after undergoing surgery on the knee that caused him a lot of trouble late in the 2021-2022 season. He only played in two of the team's four preseason matches and was held out of the first two games of the season as he recovered from some discomfort.
On Saturday, LaVine finally suited up and played well, looking like his old self on the offensive end. He was aggressive, getting to the basket and drawing fouls. It was a solid performance (23 points, four assists, three rebounds, and two steals) from LaVine and a much-needed one for the Bulls.
Afterward, LaVine shared that he would go full-throttle if and when on the floor.
"Felt great. When I play, I'm not going to hold anything back. It felt good to get out there," said the two-time All-Star.
Knee management
Bulls head coach Billy Donovan was happy to see his high-flying wingman back in uniform and on the floor. However, he admitted they still need to approach LaVine's knee condition with extreme caution.
"He was explosive, he shot it and he moved; he looked fine physically. The reality is he's been cleared to play. We just have to manage him. I thought his energy and pop, it was there," said Donovan.
LaVine is not expected to play in any back-to-back games early in the season, and the coaching staff and medical team will continue to decide on their wingman's status on a day-to-day basis. Had the decision been up to him, LaVine said he wants to play as much as possible, but he understands the need to be cautious.
"I feel great, but we don't want any setbacks," said LaVine. "I'm just trying to stay within myself and my own limits and not try to do too much."
"Obviously, you guys know me. I like playing all the time. But gotta think big picture and what's most important. We'll figure that out as it goes along."
