Foot surgery NBA season cut short Bulls star

"Bulls star Zach LaVine's NBA season cut short by foot surgery, creating major franchise questions. Trade deadline looms. #NBA #Bulls"

Chicago Bulls star Zach LaVine is facing a season-ending surgery on his right foot, which raises several concerns for the team as they approach the NBA trade deadline and look ahead to next year.

The two-time All-Star is scheduled to undergo surgery in the next week and is expected to be out for four to six months. Coach Billy Donovan expressed that LaVine made the decision for his health, as the discomfort in his foot was preventing him from performing at his best and contributing to the team.

LaVine, who is approaching 29 years old, previously missed 17 games due to inflammation in his right foot. Despite his return to the court in January, he suffered a rolled ankle during a game against Toronto, and his foot did not respond well to treatment.

Having signed a lucrative five-year contract with the Bulls in 2022, LaVine's absence will significantly impact the team's performance. He has been a consistent high scorer and contributor, averaging 19.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.9 assists in 25 games this season.

This injury adds to the challenges faced by the Bulls, as they have also been dealing with the absence of players like Lonzo Ball and Patrick Williams due to injuries.

With a record of 23-27, the Bulls are now faced with tough decisions leading up to the trade deadline. The potential departure of key players like Alex Caruso and DeMar DeRozan could further impact the team's performance, but holding on to them may allow the Bulls to bring in additional support to compensate for the loss of LaVine and other injured players.

Overall, the Bulls are facing a difficult period as they navigate the impact of LaVine's injury and the decisions they need to make to maintain competitiveness in the league.