Zach LaVine Returns to Chicago: ‘Felt Like I Came Home’
Chicago welcomed back Zach LaVine on October 25, 2023, as he played his first game at the United Center since being traded to the Sacramento Kings last season. LaVine, who scored 30 points in the Kings’ 126-113 loss to the Bulls, expressed his deep connection to the city, stating, “It felt like I came home.”
LaVine spent eight seasons with the Chicago Bulls, earning a reputation as a key player. During his time in Chicago, he was selected for two All-Star teams and ranks among the franchise’s top ten in points, three-pointers made, and field goals. Despite this success, the Bulls opted to trade LaVine in a three-team deal, aiming to focus on a younger roster.
The evening was marked by an emotional tribute to LaVine. During the first quarter, the Bulls played a video celebrating his contributions to the team, which was met with a standing ovation from the crowd. LaVine acknowledged this warm reception, saying, “I know I did a lot of good in Chicago. I just wish I could have won more here.”
Throughout LaVine’s tenure, the Bulls struggled, posting a record of 174-242 and making the playoffs only once, where they were eliminated in the first round. Despite the challenges, LaVine reflected positively on his time in the city. “Sometimes you do the best you can,” he noted. “None of us try to lose, but you play the cards you’re dealt and you play them to the best of your ability.”
LaVine’s Legacy and Future
After the game, LaVine shared a moment on the court with his former teammate, DeMar DeRozan, along with other ex-Bulls players and coach Billy Donovan. LaVine’s bond with the team remains strong, as he mentioned, “I’ll continue to be a fan of this team and this organization unless I’m playing against them. It’s nothing but love for me.”
Matas Buzelis, a current Bulls forward who scored 27 points and grabbed 5 rebounds, praised LaVine’s impact on his career. “He is an amazing guy,” Buzelis said. “He answers all the questions I have. Amazing role model. He is my first superstar teammate… he was a great leader.”
This victory marked the Bulls’ fourth consecutive win, improving their record to 4-0, a feat not achieved since the 2021-22 season. That season was notable as the last time the Bulls made the postseason, a campaign buoyed by LaVine, DeRozan, and Lonzo Ball, before injuries derailed their momentum.
Reflecting on the challenges faced by the Bulls, LaVine stated, “We saw a glimpse of how good we were, but it takes a winning mindset from top to bottom, and we just didn’t get it done.” He emphasized the importance of introspection, saying, “Sometimes you have to live with that. You have to look at yourself in the mirror and everybody else does as well, figuring out why it didn’t work.”
As the Bulls continue their promising start, LaVine respects the team’s decision to rebuild and looks forward to seeing their progress. “I’m glad to see how good they’re doing right now,” he concluded.
The return of LaVine to Chicago highlights not only his personal journey but also the evolving narrative of the Bulls as they strive for success in the competitive landscape of the NBA.
