Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball has expressed unwavering confidence in his readiness for the team's first regular-season game, despite his long absence due to injury. Ball last took to the court in an NBA game on January 14, 2022, sidelined by a torn meniscus in his knee and subsequent setbacks during rehabilitation.
After undergoing a second knee surgery, an arthroscopic debridement procedure, Ball faced a challenging recovery. In March 2023, he underwent a crucial third experimental surgery – a cartilage transplant, crucial for his return to professional play. By late August, Ball began participating in 5-on-5 scrimmages with other NBA players, marking a significant milestone in his recovery journey.
The Road Back
Bulls President Arturas Karnisovas has shared a cautiously optimistic outlook regarding Ball's return to the court. "Going into training camp, we're going to have to bring [Lonzo] up slowly. He's already played 5-on-5, but we haven't seen him go through training camp, so there's going to be a lot of learning experience during training camp and how he can take loads, everyday practices," Karnisovas noted.
Ball acknowledges the changes in his physical capabilities, but remains confident about his performance. "Obviously I'm not going to be as athletic as I once was before, but I feel like skill and IQ can go a long way, especially in the league. I'm not too worried about it, obviously my game's going to have to change a little bit, but I still know how to play the game and I think I can play at a high level," he shared.
The Bulls' New Dynamics
The Bulls have seen some significant roster changes since Ball's last game. DeMar DeRozan and Alex Caruso, who were instrumental during Ball's initial season with Chicago, are no longer with the team. The Bulls traded Caruso to Oklahoma City and brought in Josh Giddey as part of the deal. This shift opens up new dynamics for the team, with players like Coby White and Ayo Dosunmu stepping into more prominent roles. White, a finalist for Most Improved Player last season, and Dosunmu, who finished strong, will be crucial as Ball integrates back into the lineup.
Adapting His Game
Ball remains positive about the team's direction and his place within it. "I think they're trying to do what's best for the team. Obviously, we had a lot of success when I was running point guard, getting rebounds, pushing it up, and Giddey is capable of doing the same thing. For me, I look at it as like, they want to win the most games as possible, and they feel like he can do it, we feel like he can do it and that's why he's here," Ball said.
Despite acknowledging that his game will need to adapt, Ball is optimistic about his return and his chemistry with the newer, younger roster. "I feel like I can personally play with anybody. I feel a lot older coming back and seeing guys in here now, we have a young team. But I'm excited to get the year started," he expressed.
Managing Expectations
As the season approaches, Ball's minutes on the court will be carefully managed. He is expected to be on a minutes restriction and is unlikely to participate in back-to-back games initially. This cautious approach aims to ensure his long-term health and reintegration into full-season rhythm.
The upcoming season brings a blend of hope and uncertainty for the Bulls and their fans. As Lonzo Ball navigates his comeback, the entire team's dynamics and strategy will evolve. With Ball's experience and renewed determination, the Bulls are poised to adapt to changes and leverage their key players to strive for a successful season.