The next two steps for Zach LaVine to climb in his evolution will be critical.
Not only for the Bulls guard, but the entire organization.
First, he has to show that he is a worthy max player. He’s closed the gap on that from the start of the season because of his willingness to try and be a two-way player, but he’s not there yet.
More importantly, he has to prove to be a destination player. Other superstars from around the league have to look at his game and the make-up of the roster and say, “I need to be a part of that.’’
That’s when the Bulls can officially kick the rebuild training wheels off, and let the rest of the Eastern Conference know that they have staying power as a threat.
A lot of ifs and some serious obstacles for the first-time All-Star to maneuver, but there seems to be a different drive with LaVine this season. Pick a reason. The coach, the roster, the front office, the system, the man himself, or maybe all of the above.
That’s why with the first half of the season officially over for the Bulls and the Sun-Times handing out midterm grades, LaVine is the obvious valedictorian at the break. LaVine’s grade? Solid A.
Coby White – They tried to force point guard down his throat, and it’s just not White. That doesn’t mean he’s not valuable, but on a serious playoff roster he’s better suited as a sixth man whose game is predicated on scoring. Grade: B-
Lauri Markkanen – The best ability to have is availability, and the 7-footer is failing in that department. When he has played he’s had some moments, but not enough. Grade: C-
Wendell Carter Jr. – The big man’s worst enemy at times is that guy in the mirror. The raw potential is there, but this is also Year 3, and the game doesn’t wait on baby steps. Grade: C
Patrick Williams – No Summer League, no rookie camp, and a shortened training camp? And that’s already the product? Be excited Bulls fans because something special could be on the way. Grade: B+
Thad Young – His play-making out of the paint has been spectacular at times, and it still falls short of his importance in the locker room. That’s how special the “old man’’ has been. Grade: A
Otto Porter Jr. – He’s played 16 games this season, and he’s never been right from a health standpoint since he was acquired. Sure, an Incomplete is the easy grade, but this is a big-boy business. Grade: F
Garrett Temple – Maybe not the on-court impact of Young, but again, don’t discount what Temple has meant to a lot of these young players and their development. A steal of a free agent for the money. Grade: A-
Denzel Valentine – The combo guard/forward has his moments. Then he has his moments. He was definitely worth keeping on the roster this season, but needs to find more consistency all around. Grade: C+
Tomas Satoransky – The black cat of the team with all the coronavirus tracing and hits he’s endured, but still has come back and been a solid contributor to a dangerous bench. The Bulls are better when Sato is up and running. Grade: B
Daniel Gafford – The second-year big man has gotten a wake-up call this season, with his flaws being exposed as the year has gone on. There’s something there because of his athleticism and energy, but Gafford has a lot to work on. Grade: C-
Ryan Arcidiacono – Considering what his role is and how he stays ready no matter when he’s asked to play? A solid B-. Then factor in the man-bun. Grade: B+
Luke Kornet – OK big man, we see you finally. Now get that three-pointer more consistent. Grade: C
Chandler Hutchison – There’s obviously some things going on with the kid and you feel for him. But see Porter – big-boy business. Grade: D-
Cristiano Felicio – Grade: F [for Forman, and the ridiculous contract the former GM gave Felicio].
