Zach LaVine makes an honest statement amid the Chicago Bulls trade rumors

The Chicago Bulls sent DeMar DeRozan to the Sacramento Kings in a sign-and-trade deal this offseason. The Bulls also sent Alex Caruso to the OKC Thunder in exchange for Josh Giddey, making it clear they were finally moving toward a rebuild.

Unable to find a trade partner to take back Zach LaVine and the remaining three years of his five-year, $215 million contract, the Bulls entered this season hoping he could rebuild some trade value.

Although LaVine has already missed three of Chicago’s 10 games, he has played very well in his seven appearances. Averaging 22.0 points, 5.0 rebounds and 3.3 assists, LaVine has shot 50.5 percent from the field and 43.4 percent from three (career highs).

Perhaps the most impressive thing about LaVine’s start to the season is his mentality amid the constant trade rumors.

“Both LaVine and veteran Nikola Vucevic know the Bulls want to move them, and that will likely be a contender once a market shift occurs in January and the February trade deadline,” Joe Cowley of the Chicago Sun Times wrote.

Despite knowing this, LaVine said it’s not difficult to maintain the right mindset (via Cowley).

“No, it’s not hard,” LaVine said. “It’s understanding. If you don’t understand what you’re getting into, it’s difficult. I have the right mentality right now to understand what the game needs from me today… just try to do the right thing.

This is a professional approach from LaVine that could make him a contender if he maintains this level.

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