The last few years have been rocky for the Chicago Bulls. They have experienced lots of roster turnover, especially this past offseason, and have been involved in many major rumors. Furthermore, they have only made the playoffs one time after the 2016-17 season. Through the first 12 games of the 2024-25 season, the Bulls are 5-7. While this is a losing record, it is currently good enough for the No. 6 seed in the East. The Bulls are in an interesting position. Despite not being a legitimate contender, they are in a decent position to make a playoff run this season. Much of this stems from their star, Zach LaVine, and head coach Billy Donovan. Last year, reports indicated that their relationship was “broken” (subscription required). However, per recent developments, it seems that the two have reconciled and are back on good terms.
According to Joe Cowley of the Chicago Sun-Times (subscription required), an anonymous player revealed that LaVine and Donovan have a good relationship again.
“According to one Bulls player, the Donovan-LaVine relationship is as good as it’s been since the two came together back in the 2020-21 season, both from a communication standpoint and even just small talk away from the basketball court,” Cowley wrote.
Chicago Bulls’ Zach LaVine, Billy Donovan Reportedly Back On Good Terms
The Chicago Bulls This Season
The Bulls look like a much different team compared to last year. In the offseason, the team moved on from DeMar DeRozan, Alex Caruso, Andre Drummond, and Javonte Green. Despite appearing in numerous trade rumors, LaVine and Nikola Vucevic remain in Chicago. On the flip side, the Bulls acquired notable players in Josh Giddey, Jalen Smith, Matas Buzelis, and Talen-Horton Tucker. However, the Bulls’ biggest change is getting Lonzo Ball back, who missed the last two-and-a-half seasons due to injuries. While Ball has missed the Bulls’ last eight games due to a wrist injury, he should make his way back onto the court soon.
Despite being a losing team this season, there is a lot to like about the Bulls this season. They score 115.4 points per game, which is the 10th-best in the NBA. Additionally, they rank as the fastest-paced offensive team in the league. While their defense still leaves a lot to be desired, the Bulls are in a better situation than many expected.
The Last Word On Zach LaVine and Billy Donovan
On the year, LaVine has averaged 23.4 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game. Additionally, he is shooting 54.2% from the field and 42.6% from the three-point line. LaVine has missed three games so far this season, and the Bulls went 0-3 in those games. If the Bulls want to remain a playoff team, LaVine is crucial to the team’s success.
The 29-year-old having a good relationship with Donovan again is important. Knowing that they are on the same page should help the Bulls inch closer to success. While they are not likely to contend for a championship any time soon, the Bulls remain a potential playoff team. The season is still young, but things are looking alright in Chicago for now.
