Chicago Bulls superstar guard Zach LaVine is eligible for a contract extension with the Bulls within the next few days and is looking to be rewarded for his All-Star play, but is aiming to also work with the organization to use it’s cap space to bring in talent, according to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst.
“I just want my respect, that’s the main thing,” LaVine, 26, said on Monday. LaVine is currently playing for Team USA in the Olympics and is preparing with the team for their upcoming quarterfinal game against Spain that will tip off on Thursday. Chicago based sports talk podcasts have been discussing LaVine’s contract situation for months.
“I outplayed my contract. I’ve been very loyal to Chicago. I like Chicago. I just want my respect. If that’s now or later, it’s something we’ve got to work out internally.”
LaVine has one year remaining on his current contract, in which he is set to earn $19.5 million, but the Bulls will likely only be able to offer him a contract for $105 million which could be well below LaVine’s market value.
“Free agency is going to play a part [in an extension] with other players and constructing a roster,” LaVine said. “We’ll have some conversations going forward.”
