Chicago Bulls: 3 reasons to re-sign Zach LaVine

2. Not afraid of big moments

One of the attributes of a star player is the ability to step up and be the go-to guy when your team needs you to deliver in crunch time. Ironically, such a scenario occurred back in early February, when LaVine played against his former team.

With fan favorites and former Bulls Tom Thibodeau, Jimmy Butler and Taj Gibson on the opposing bench, the stage was set for a memorable evening.

The game appeared to be heading toward a disappointing finish for the fans at the United Center, as the Timberwolves led by as many as 17 points in the third quarter. In the final frame, though, LaVine put his imprint on the game.

Going toe-to-toe with Butler, LaVine scored the Bulls’ last 11 points and a total of 15 points in the frame, including an emphatic dunk; a 3-pointer that tied the game at 111 and three free throws to give Chicago a one-point lead.

The Timberwolves missed on both of their 3-point attempts on the game’s final possession, allowing the Bulls to come away with a surprising 114-113 victory. Fittingly, LaVine had his best game of the season against his former ball club, pouring in a season-high 35 points to go along with five rebounds and two steals, thus proving he can deliver when the stakes are high.