Recent reports suggesting a potential trade for Zach LaVine raised questions about his commitment to the Chicago Bulls.
However, Bulls head coach Billy Donovan swiftly addressed the speculation, stating that LaVine has never expressed a desire to leave Chicago.
During a postgame press conference, Donovan said, “No. He’s never ever once said that to me at any point in time, and I’ve never gotten that from him.”
Donovan emphasized the open communication he maintains with his players, expressing confidence in addressing any concerns head-on.
“I always feel like I’ve had a relationship with the players, like if there’s a problem, like I’m straight up, just deal with it head-on, let’s talk about it. That’s the way I am,” Donovan explained.
He acknowledged that players, including LaVine, may voice different things at various times, but he sees these conversations as part of the ongoing effort to improve the team.
“I think that Zach in different times in different situation that we’ve been together, he’s voiced different things to me and that’s okay. It’s fine,” he said.
“We both will talk through things or whatever it may be. I wouldn’t say any of those conversations are abnormal for any other guys that I’ve coached.”