Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball is exuding confidence as he gears up for a highly anticipated return to the court. Speaking at the team's recent media day, Ball assured fans and teammates alike that he would be ready for the Bulls' first regular-season game. This optimism marks a crucial point in Ball's strenuous journey back from injury.
The last time Ball played in an NBA game was January 14, 2022—a date that feels like a lifetime ago for Bulls supporters. His prolonged absence was initially caused by a torn meniscus in his knee. Unfortunately, his return was sidelined multiple times due to setbacks in his rehabilitation efforts. The road to recovery hasn't been easy, featuring not one but three surgeries. Ball initially underwent arthroscopic debridement to address the torn meniscus. But it was the third, more experimental procedure—a cartilage transplant conducted in March 2023—that has sparked the most hope for his future.
On the Road to Recovery
As of late August, Ball has been participating in 5-on-5 scrimmages with other NBA players, marking a significant step forward in his rehabilitation. Despite the progress, Bulls President Arturas Karnisovas remains cautiously optimistic about Ball's participation on opening night. "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 explained.
Even with this cautious approach, including a likely minutes restriction and avoiding back-to-back games, Ball’s potential return fires up both the team's strategy and fanbase. His blend of skill and savvy basketball IQ could be invaluable. Ball himself acknowledges that while he may not be as athletic as he once was, his understanding of the game will help him adapt. "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," Ball said.
A New Team Dynamic
This season will also bring about notable changes in the Bulls' roster. DeMar DeRozan and Alex Caruso, two key figures during Ball’s first season with Chicago, are no longer with the team. Caruso was traded to Oklahoma City in exchange for Josh Giddey as part of a significant deal aimed at reshaping the Bulls’ lineup.
Addressing the trade and the subsequent shifts in team dynamics, Ball remained diplomatic yet optimistic. "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 shared.
Moreover, the Bulls can also look forward to contributions from returning players. Coby White, who was a finalist for Most Improved Player last year, and Ayo Dosunmu, who concluded the previous season impressively, are poised for critical roles. With a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, Ball believes he can fit seamlessly and effectively into this revamped 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 said.
As training camp approaches, the Chicago Bulls find themselves at an intriguing crossroads. The cautious optimism of their leadership, coupled with Ball's resolve, sets a promising stage for the upcoming season. With fundamental changes and renewed energy, the Bulls and their fans await the tipping point—a pivotal juncture where hope meets action.