The Chicago Bulls failed to find a trade partner in the summer to get Zach LaVine’s contract off the books. With three years remaining on his deal, he was still set to earn $138 million. LaVine was coming off a serious injury.

Combine that with his massive contract and teams around the league were not keen to take a risk on the 29-year-old. They might be regretting it already. LaVine has made a fantastic start to the season. He is averaging 22 points, 5 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game. His efficiency has been solid as well, as he is making 50.5% of his shots from the field and 43.4% from beyond the arc. As a result, LaVine has proven that he is still one of the most dynamic scorers in the league and must have already increased his trade value significantly, from where it was in the summer. Another thing that might attract potential contenders is LaVine’s mentality.

Despite the uncertainty around his future in Chicago, he seems to be giving it his all and is ready to embrace his role. According to Joe Cowley in the Chicago Sun-Times, LaVine said: “You go into each game trying to win, regardless. I don’t care if you have the lowest expectations on the totem pole, we’re trying to win games – at least I am. I’m not here trying to throw no games. Been in Chicago for years. We’re not trying to lose games. “But understanding the situation we’re in with the guys, we’re trying to develop dudes, as well. You know, how can the veteran guys put their footprint into the game and help us win but also help raise these guys’ level of play?”

LaVine is proving to be a difference-maker for the Bulls right now for sure. It is no coincidence that they snapped a four-game losing streak on his return to the court following a short-term injury. When asked about keeping the right mindset, LaVine said: “No, it’s not hard. “It’s understanding. If you’re not understanding what you’re coming into, then it’s hard. I have the right mindset right now of understanding what the game needs from me today. . . . Just try and do the right thing.” So, not only is LaVine performing on the court, but he is being a true professional as well. A trade might not be imminent but this type of mindset might help him land on a contender later in the season.