The former NBA Dunk Champion has blossomed into an offensive machine.
Just three years ago, Zach LaVine was considered to be one of the NBA’s most explosive players. He won the Slam Dunk Contest in back-to-back years and was known as an explosive player off the bounce.
The problem? People categorized LaVine, not recognizing his all-around offensive potential, including the fact that his three-point shot was becoming a big factor in his game.
Then something bigger happened: LaVine tore his ACL in February 2017. The hype ended. People stopped talking about LaVine as a rising star–even as a player with impact. Attention shifted to other prospects, like Aaron Gordon and Brandon Ingram.
Oh, those foolish people! No player has executed a better turnaround this NBA season than Zach LaVine. Return that hype! Through twenty games, LaVine has improved in all facets of his game. He’s even back doing his famous 360 in-game dunks.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ah7VV6x-SzE
Shot-creating ability is a big area of improvement. No longer just a straight-up spot shooter, LaVine has been able to come off the dribble and shoot from virtually anywhere in the halfcourt. That enables him to be a threat anytime the ball is in his hands. He’s able to create shots rather than rely on teammates to find him.
The result? Zach LaVine is putting up all-star numbers–25.3 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4 assists per game (as of November 16)–as the Bulls run the offense through him. Overall, LaVine is first on the team in points per game, third in assists, and fourth in rebounds. He ranks 11th in the NBA in points-per-game.
Beyond the numbers. the game is slowing down for LaVine. He’s better at understanding how to attack NBA defensive matchups and he has become a well-rounded player as a result.
He is now paying off for the Bulls–a team that took a lot of criticism for signing him to a rich contract. The Sacremento Kings had signed him to a four-year, $78 million deal, which the Bulls were able to match because LaVine was a restricted free agent.
Earning close to $20 million a year is a lot for a player who hadn’t developed and was considered a risk. But, now, those who criticized the signing are shutting their mouths.
LaVine looks to be the face of the franchise on this young Bulls squad. He has all-star talent and has a good shot at being named the NBA’s Most Improved Player.
