Fansided

Is Denzel Valentine’s Chicago Bulls career over?

By Mark Carman

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MARCH 08: Denzel Valentine #45 of the Chicago Bulls reacts against the Brooklyn Nets in the first half at Barclays Center on March 08, 2020 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Steven Ryan/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MARCH 08: Denzel Valentine #45 of the Chicago Bulls reacts against the Brooklyn Nets in the first half at Barclays Center on March 08, 2020 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Steven Ryan/Getty Images) /
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With the regular season winding down, Denzel Valentine is unsure if he fits in the future plans of the Chicago Bulls.

Denzel Valentine made news last week when he commented on the future of Chicago Bulls head coach Jim Boylen. But, what about Valentine’s future with the Bulls?

It has been an especially challenging year for Valentine who appeared in only two games in February due to a hamstring injury, and played only 44 minutes in November, out of Boylen’s rotation.

Valentine has not let the sporadic playing time and health challenges affect his belief he can play a role in the league. With some team. Somewhere.

"“I definitely think I belong in this league,” Valentine said. “I definitely think I’m a major part on a winning team. I definitely think I belong. I definitely think I’m a key piece to a winning team. Definitely."

By my count, that 5 definitelys. No lack of confidence there. Check.

For now, Valentine is definitely with the Bulls. He is a restricted free agent at the end of the year. Would the Bulls match an offer if Valentine gets one? Does Valentine want to be in Chicago period? Do the Bulls want Valentine at any price, especially if Boylen remains the head coach? Valentine is unsure.

"“I don’t know what they think,” Valentine said. “They’ll probably make that decision at the end of the year. I’m a Bull now. I’m appreciative, just going to take advantage of every opportunity that I can. Obviously I want to be a big part of the team. Come in and contribute every night. Its not up to me. I’m being professional and ready when my number is called.”"

Part of it, is up to Valentine. If he shoots the ball at a high level it will be harder to keep him off the court even when Zach LaVine returns. Valentine has started the last four games while LaVine has been out with a quad injury. So far, its been a mixed bag. Valentine is averaging 12.5 ppg, his best month by far. But, he is shooting a woeful 20 percent from 3, 5-25 combined in his last 4 games as a starter.

Valentine joined this week’s edition of Da Windy City podcast at the 11-minute mark. Check it out. He discussed how the year has worn on him, his future and more. Definitely.