Chicago Bulls: 3 takeaways from the close win over the Cavaliers

By Luke Askew | Nov 10, 2018

CHICAGO, IL - NOVEMBER 10: Zach LaVine #8 of the Chicago Bulls attacks the basket during the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on November 10, 2018 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Gary Dineen/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /

3. Zach LaVine’s workload is scary

Zach LaVine has had an incredible start to the season and is looking like he’s ready for his first All-Star selection. Bulls fans are loving how he’s getting to the rim, creating shots for others and knocking down tough jumpers. Is he doing too much, though?

Going into the game against the Cavs, LaVine was averaging 35.8 minutes per game – the second most in his career. His career-high in minutes per game came in the 2016-17 season before tearing his ACL.

Against the Cavs, LaVine played a game-high 39 minutes. I’m not a doctor, and I’m by no means saying that LaVine can’t handle these minutes, but it’s definitely cause for concern.

It makes sense why LaVine is playing so many minutes, though. The Bulls need him.

In the win over Cleveland, LaVine led the Bulls in points (24), rebounds (8) and assists (5). Without Kris Dunn, Bobby Portis and Lauri Markkanen, the Bulls would be terrible if LaVine wasn’t almost constantly on the floor.

LaVine looks to be as athletic and energetic as ever, so maybe these minutes aren’t bothering the 23-year-old shooting guard, but if the Bulls’ coaching staff starts to see even the slightest signs of overuse, they need to give Zach some rest. For now, though, let’s just let LaVine keep doing the amazing things he’s doing.

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