The NBA offseason can be unforgiving, even for two-time All-Stars like Zach LaVine. Despite the Chicago Bulls’ efforts to shop him around, LaVine found himself without serious suitors this summer. But Kendrick Perkins, former NBA player and outspoken analyst, thinks teams missed the boat—and he’s not holding back on why.
Perkins took to X (formerly Twitter) to fire off a bold take on LaVine’s value: “I was told that teams didn’t think Zach LaVine had any trade value. Well shame on them… he’s only averaging a casual 25 points on 55% shooting.” LaVine, who’s been lighting up the scoreboard with impressive efficiency, certainly has numbers on his side. But if he’s such an offensive asset, why were teams hesitant to bite?
The answer may lie beyond the stats. LaVine’s reputation took a hit last season during a critical moment when he stormed off the court following a Bulls’ comeback victory, brushing past a PR team member without celebrating with his teammates. The incident sparked questions about his attitude, with some speculating that he might not be the most “team-oriented” player. While LaVine later apologized, the moment left a lasting impression on fans and executives alike.
Critics also argue that LaVine’s play style can disrupt team flow, as he’s often seen hunting for his own shot rather than involving teammates in set plays. But with the Bulls’ lack of consistent support around him, can you blame him? LaVine has played under six different coaches in ten years and has watched most of his teammates cycle in and out of the league—72 out of his 101 teammates, to be exact, are no longer in the NBA, per Sporting News. Under such circumstances, it’s no wonder LaVine might feel the need to take matters into his own hands.
Still, with his undeniable scoring talent, LaVine remains a potent offensive weapon, averaging 25 points on an efficient 55% shooting to start the season. His numbers suggest he could be a serious asset for a team willing to overlook past incidents and focus on his production. And Perkins is betting big that teams will regret not taking a chance on him.
The season is young, and the Bulls guard will have plenty of opportunities to prove his worth—maybe even enough to make those hesitant teams wish they’d taken the plunge. Whether LaVine stays in Chicago or finds a new home by next year, his story is one of resilience, talent, and a reminder that sometimes, the offseason misses what fans and players alike can clearly see.
