Chicago Bulls: 2 studs and 1 dud from the win over the Cavs

1 dud for the Chicago Bulls in the win over the Cavs: Zach LaVine

The first, and only, dud that we’re listing individually in this slight win over the Cavs for the Bulls is unfortunately star shooting guard Zach LaVine. It’s hard to argue with the fact that LaVine was the least productive starter in this game for the Bulls. He wasn’t much of a net positive presence on either end of the floor.

Don’t read too much into this performance from LaVine in terms of how he can perform for the Bulls during the regular season. LaVine had a solid start to the preseason on both ends of the floor. And if he can continue to improve this season the way he did in the last three or four years, we’re going to see a potential superstar in the making.

LaVine already proved his star status to Bulls fans, and NBA fans in general, last season when he received his first career All-Star nod.

Nonetheless, this performance individually was ineffective for LaVine. He put up just 13 points in 30 minutes on the floor. He shot just 5-of-14 from the field, 1-of-4 from beyond the arc, and was a perfect 2-of-2 from the free-throw line. To put a cherry on top of this not-so-great performance from LaVine, he turned the ball over three times compared with just one assist.

LaVine also registered just two rebounds, along with no steals and no blocks.

There were glimpses in this game of brilliance for LaVine. His athleticism and tough-shot-making ability will just blow some people away at least a few times each game. But the inefficiencies in this game for LaVine are something that Bulls fans will just have to live with some games. It’s part of life with LaVine as a cornerstone to a team.