Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball is steadfast in his determination to return to the court by the team’s first regular-season game. After navigating a challenging rehabilitation journey marked by multiple surgeries, Ball’s optimism has injected a sense of hope among Bulls fans and the organization alike.
A Rocky Road Back
Ball last played in an NBA game on January 14, 2022. His prolonged absence stems from a torn meniscus in his knee, which triggered a series of setbacks during his rehab. To address the lingering issues, Ball underwent a second knee surgery: an arthroscopic debridement procedure. However, his struggles persisted, leading to a third and experimental surgery in March 2023—a cartilage transplant. It was a last-resort effort to bolster his path back to competitive play.
Progress and Cautious Optimism
In late August, Ball made significant strides by participating in 5-on-5 scrimmages with other NBA players. Bulls President Arturas Karnisovas shared a cautious optimism about Ball's potential return by opening night, emphasizing the importance of a gradual ramp-up during training camp. "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 stated.
Recognizing the road ahead, the Bulls are expected to manage Ball's minutes carefully, with restrictions likely in place, and plan to avoid having him participate in back-to-back games. The approach reflects a cautious strategy, aiming to balance his competitive drive with a focus on long-term health.
A New Era for the Bulls
The Bulls’ lineup has undergone significant changes since Ball’s last appearance. The departures of key players DeMar DeRozan and Alex Caruso mark a new chapter for the team. Caruso was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder, bringing Josh Giddey to Chicago in return. The trade signals a shift in the team's strategy, one that Ball acknowledges and supports. "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 remarked.
New Roles and Emerging Leaders
With the new roster dynamics, players like Coby White and Ayo Dosunmu find themselves in pivotal roles. White, a finalist for Most Improved Player a year ago, has shown significant development. Dosunmu, having finished the previous season on a high note, now faces the pressure and opportunity of stepping up even further.
Return of the Veteran Presence
Ball’s return is not just a comeback; it represents a critical addition of veteran leadership to a young Bulls team. Recognizing that his game will need to adapt, Ball remains confident in his abilities. "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 noted.
For Ball, the transition back to playing brings both anticipation and a sense of responsibility. He expressed his readiness to blend with the youthful energy of the current squad, "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."
The months ahead will be crucial for Ball and the Bulls. While the rehabilitation journey has been arduous, the collective hope and strategic patience may pave the way for a successful return. Ball’s presence on the court, regardless of the adjustments he’ll need to make, could play an instrumental role in shaping the Bulls’ season.