Zach LaVine Addresses Rumors on Bulls Future: 'Winning Would Take Care of Everything'

The Chicago Bulls spent the offseason adding depth around Zach LaVine instead of signing the guard to an extension, which could be a risky move.

"It's a business," LaVine told ESPN's Brian Windhorst. "They did what was best for the team, and I will continue to go out there and do what's best for the team as well. This season going forward is going to be extremely crucial not just for me but for everybody. Winning would take care of everything."

LaVine has spent four years with the Bulls after three years with the Minnesota Timberwolves and has never reached the playoffs. It could lead him to seek a new team next offseason when he hits free agency.

The 26-year-old also indicated he is looking for a significant boost to his $19.5 million salary in 2021-22.

"I just want my respect, that's the main thing," LaVine said at the Tokyo Olympics. "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."

According to Windhorst, the two sides held discussions about an extension this offseason but couldn't find common ground.

The Bulls were still aggressive this summer, adding Lonzo Ball, DeMar DeRozan and Alex Caruso. They traded for Nikola Vucevic before the deadline last season.

Chicago will hope that is enough to turn things around after four straight losing seasons. Last season's 31-41 record wasn't enough to get into the Eastern Conference play-in tournament, which featured three teams with losing records.

LaVine has thrived individually, however, earning his first All-Star selection in 2020-21 with averages of 27.4 points, 5.0 rebounds and 4.9 assists per game.

If the Bulls don't improve, he could look for greener pastures.