Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine will undergo season-ending right foot surgery and be sidelined for four to six months, the NBA club announced on Sunday.
After seeking additional medical opinions, in consultation with the Bulls trainers and medical staff, LaVine and his representatives at Klutch Sports Group decided on surgery to hasten his recovery, the Bulls said.
Surgery is anticipated to take place next week and he is expected to be ready ahead of training camp for next season.
Watch an average of 9 NBA Regular Season games per week LIVE on ESPN, available via Kayo. New to Kayo? Start Your Free Trial Today >
Reaves takes out Celtics in Lakers win | 01:34
LaVine, a two-time NBA All-Star and member of the Tokyo Olympic US gold medal squad, has missed Chicago’s past six games after being out for more than a month earlier this season with right foot soreness.
LaVine had been one of the bigger names to watch ahead of this year’s trade deadline, linked to the Lakers and then, most recently, the rebuilding Pistons.
LaVine has averaged 19.5 points, 5.2 rebounds and 3.9 assists a game over 25 contests this season for the Bulls, who at 23-26 rank ninth in the Eastern Conference.
The 28-year-old American is in his 10th NBA campaign and seventh season with Chicago.