Tuesday, November 3, 2026

Zach LaVine’s Injury Could Affect Potential Max Bulls Contract

  • The two-time All-Star underwent surgery on his knee Tuesday.
  • The unrestricted free agent is due for a five-year, $200 million deal if he re-signs with Chicago.
Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

Want more from Front Office Sports
in your search results?

Add Front Office Sports on Google

Two-time All-Star Zach LaVine is arguably the biggest NBA free agent on the market this summer, but a contract extension with the Bulls could be in jeopardy due to health concerns.

On Tuesday, the 26-year-old underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee — five years after tearing his ACL. 

LaVine could command a five-year, $200 million deal if he re-signs with Chicago.

But NBA insider Jake Fischer reported this week that a lucrative extension with Chicago has “dissolved” and that Atlanta and Portland might be top suitors for the unrestricted free agent.

There’s little doubt about his talent when healthy — he’s averaged 20 PPG on 46% shooting over his eight-year career. However, he hasn’t played more than 65 games since 2015. 

Still, there’s a strong incentive for both parties to re-up.

The Bulls spent roughly $77 million on four supporting pieces to build a powerhouse around their star, while the most LaVine could make by signing with another team is $160 million over four years.

Download the FOS App

The business of sports, in your pocket.

QR code to download the app

Scan the QR code to get the app now.

Linkedin
Whatsapp
Copy Link
Link Copied
Link Copied

What to Read

Bears Stadium Saga Enters Critical Stretch With Illinois, Indiana

Preparations are advancing for the upcoming legislative veto session in Illinois.

Bears Stadium Fight Erupts During Illinois Governor’s Debate

The stadium debate has become a flashpoint in the political race.

NFL Puts Pressure on Illinois in Latest Bears Stadium Talks

Roger Goodell and JB Pritzker had their first face-to-face meeting.
Oct 23, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Detailed view of the Chicago Bulls logo against the New Orleans Pelicans during the second half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
Exclusive

Bulls Planning Analyst Rotation to Replace Late Stacey King

Robbie Hummel is among the names under consideration.
podcast thumbnail mobile
Front Office Sports Today

11/3/26 – First CFP Rankings, Wilbon Steps Away, NFL Coaching Hot Seats

0:00

Featured Today

How Injuries Hit Pro Marathoners in the Wallet

Staying healthy can get expensive—quickly.
Football - NFL - Houston Texans v Jacksonville Jaguars - Wembley Stadium, London, Britain - October 18, 2026 The necklace of a Jacksonville Jaguars fan outside the stadium before the match
October 21, 2026

Die-Hard Sports Fandom Has Reached the Afterlife

Will fans pay $6,000 to memorialize their team loyalty?
October 20, 2026

Why Europe Is Pumping Out NBA Superstars

The NBA and NCAA have an increasingly European flavor.
October 15, 2026

College Flag Football Is Outgrowing Its DIY Era

Women have been building the college game themselves at the club level.
Oct 5, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas arrives at the arena before the Penguins host the Winnipeg Jets at PPG Paints Arena
October 12, 2026

NHL’s New Wave of GMs Is Built Different

“I am in the prediction business,” Devils GM Sunny Mehta tells FOS.
Oct 10, 2026; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Detroit Red Wings center Dylan Larkin (71) looks on during warm-up before the game against the Montreal Canadiens at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit:

Dylan Larkin’s Trade Demand Comes With a $41K Daily Price Tag

Larkin is playing an expensive waiting game, holding out for a trade.
October 28, 2026

Golf and Tennis See Big Gains in Youth Sports Participation

Youth participation in flag football also keeps growing.
October 30, 2026

Pro Marathoners Grapple With the Sport’s Pervasive Doping Problem

Pros and coaches tell FOS the ripple effects last for years.
Sponsored

How Jeremy Bloom Is Reinventing the X Games

Jeremy Bloom discusses transforming the X Games into a global brand.
October 28, 2026

Saquon Barkley Opposes 18-Game NFL Season: ‘Hell of a Sport’

The Eagles RB cited player health.
Exclusive
October 28, 2026

NFL Told Saquon Barkley to Divest Polymarket Stake

“I was in it before, but no bueno,” Barkley told FOS.
Sponsored

How the New York Yankees Stay Game-Ready with Sage Intacct

See how Sage Intacct helps the Yankees streamline finances and plan for the future.
October 25, 2026

Jackson Contract Standoff Looms Over Ravens As Team Treads Water

The two-time MVP missed his third straight game.