The narrative around Chicago Bulls’ two-time All-Star Zach LaVine has grown increasingly negative.
Injuries limited LaVine to just 25 games in the 2023-24 season, where he averaged 19.5 points on 45.2% shooting, marking his lowest scoring output since his first season with the Bulls in 2017-18.
This dip in production, along with Chicago’s recent struggles, has sparked widespread criticism. But is the negativity toward LaVine justified? Let’s explore the most common critiques and offer some perspective.
Defense
One of the strongest criticisms is LaVine’s perceived weakness on defense. However, the statistics tell a more favorable story.
In his last healthy season (2022-23), LaVine ranked 33rd out of 539 qualified players in Defensive Win Shares. He also held opponents to 34.8% shooting on corner threes and 36.1% on above-the-break threes—numbers similar to defensive standouts Alex Caruso and Coby White.
While LaVine may not be the next Jrue Holiday, he’s far from a defensive liability. He sometimes struggles with screens, and his 6-foot-5, 200-pound frame can be exploited by bigger wings, but overall, he holds his own.
Winning
Critics often point to LaVine’s lack of playoff success, as he’s only played in four playoff games over 10 seasons. However, winning in the NBA is rarely an individual achievement.
Many star guards have faced similar struggles. Atlanta’s Trae Young has made it past the first round just once in six seasons, Phoenix’s Bradley Beal has yet to reach a conference final in 11 years, and even Milwaukee’s Damian Lillard has just one conference finals appearance in his career.
The NBA is now too competitive for a single superstar to carry a team to success, and winning requires a complete team effort.
Some detractors cite the Bulls’ better record without LaVine last season as proof of his negative impact. Yet, this is an oversimplification.
The Bulls went 29-28 without LaVine, but seven of those wins came against tanking teams like the Wizards, Pistons, Spurs, and Blazers. Additionally, three of Chicago’s top five-man units in 2023-24 included LaVine.
LaVine’s Real Value
Offensively, LaVine’s talents are undeniable. He’s a deadly step-back three-point shooter with deep range, and when he’s in rhythm, he’s nearly impossible to stop.
LaVine uses his quick burst to create separation from defenders in the midrange or beyond the arc. Alternatively, his shooting ability opens up driving lanes, making him a dual threat.
LaVine’s true value shines in clutch moments, where his offensive prowess makes a difference. In the 2022-23 season, he ranked 19th in the league in total clutch points with 100, despite sharing the court with DeMar DeRozan, who took the third-most late-game shots.
In short, while LaVine has his flaws, his overall value to the Bulls—particularly his offensive ability and underrated defense—shouldn’t be overlooked.