On Wednesday night, Zach LaVine returned to United Center to face the Chicago Bulls after being traded to the Sacramento Kingsin February.
LaVine spent seven-and-a-half seasons with Chicago, earning two All-Star appearances while averaging 24.2 points, 4.7 rebounds and 4.3 assists per game. The Kings acquired LaVine in a three-team deal, reuniting him with another former Bull DeMar DeRozan.
The Bulls showed a tribute video on their jumbotron for LaVine, before he waved to the crowd from the bench during an ovation.
Here’s a look at other notable happy returns for stars across multiple sports since 2018.
NBA
Luka Doncic, 2025
Game stats: 45 points, 6 assists, 8 rebounds
Game results: Los Angeles Lakers win 112-97
One of the most remarkable trades in NBA history sent Doncic from Dallas to Los Angeles in early 2025, after the guard had spent 6 seasons with the Mavericks, leading the franchise to the 2024 NBA Finals and earning five All-NBA first-team selections. He averaged 28.6 points, 8.6 rebounds and 8.2 assists for the Mavericks.
The Mavericks placed T-shirts on every seat at American Airlines Center to show love for Doncic.
Doncic received a video tribute during player introductions and was introduced last among Lakers starters. Fans gave him a resounding ovation as Doncic watched on the bench and was emotional, wiping away tears.
In his own words:
Zach LaVine’s happy return to Chicago leads
