After a visit with specialists in California, Zach LaVine received clearance to return to the Chicago Bulls after the All-Star break.
Bulls coach Billy Donovan said before Wednesday’s game against the Sacramento Kings at the United Center that LaVine’s visit went “very well.” LaVine flew to California this week and missed the final two games ahead of All-Star Weekend in Cleveland.
LaVine has suffered discomfort in his left knee — in which he tore the ACL in 2017 — throughout the last two months. The decision to visit a specialist came after LaVine took two periods of rest in January and February, once for his knee and once for back spasms.
Donovan said the specialists identified swelling in LaVine’s knee, which was treated Wednesday by draining fluid and injecting a lubricant. LaVine will be limited in his activity for 48 hours after the procedure, but the team’s medical staff agrees he will be “completely fine” to return to play.
LaVine likely will participate in All-Star festivities this weekend. He is scheduled to compete in the 3-point Contest on Saturday night and the All-Star Game on Sunday. Donovan said the team hasn’t spoken with LaVine about canceling the trip, although the guard likely will be limited for the game.
After the break, Donovan anticipates LaVine will be able to resume his role as a starter, although the medical staff might manage his minutes when the Bulls are scheduled for back-to-back games.
“The doctors don’t feel like he’s in any form of harm’s way in continuing to play,” Donovan said. “I spoke to him late morning, early afternoon (on Wednesday) and he was in really good spirits and felt like it’s a really good visit and feels in a good place mentally. He’ll be ready to go.”
The Bulls could get a big boost in the backcourt after the All-Star break. Donovan said Alex Caruso is 10 days from returning to ballhandling and shooting drills after undergoing right wrist surgery in January. Caruso and fellow guard Lonzo Ball ( left knee) are set to return by the end of March.
