Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball recently declared his confidence in being ready for the team's first regular-season game at the media day, marking what many hope will be a triumphant return since his last appearance on January 14, 2022. Ball's absence from the NBA court has been prolonged due to a series of unfortunate setbacks following a torn meniscus in his knee, leading to multiple surgeries that challenged his perseverance and determination.
Ball initially underwent an arthroscopic debridement procedure, aimed at cleaning out the damaged cartilage and debris in his knee. However, the recovery didn’t go as smoothly as planned, requiring a more experimental approach. In March 2023, he had a third surgery—this time a cartilage transplant, a move that underscores the Bulls’ and Ball’s relentless pursuit of a full recovery.
By late August, Ball began participating in 5-on-5 scrimmages with other NBA players, a significant milestone in his rehabilitation journey. Bulls President Arturas Karnisovas remains cautiously optimistic about Ball being ready by opening night but acknowledges the need for a gradual ramp-up. "Going into training camp, we're going to have to bring [Lonzo] up slowly,” Karnisovas emphasized. “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."
Managing Expectations
Despite his optimism, Ball is fully aware of the necessity to adjust his game following these extensive rehabilitation efforts. "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,” Ball reflected. “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."
Moving forward, Ball is expected to be on a minutes restriction and may avoid participating in back-to-back games to ensure his knee can withstand the grind of a full NBA season. This measured approach is intended to maximize his contribution without risking further injury.
Team Dynamics: New Faces and Roles
The Bulls have undergone significant changes in the roster since Ball’s first season with the team. Notably, DeMar DeRozan and Alex Caruso, who played pivotal roles during Ball’s tenure, are no longer with Chicago. Caruso was traded to Oklahoma City in exchange for Josh Giddey, a player whose potential excites both Ball and the Bulls' management. "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," Ball remarked. "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."
In addition to these high-profile changes, the Bulls will look towards homegrown talent to step up. Coby White, a finalist for Most Improved Player last year, and Ayo Dosunmu, who finished the previous season on a high note, are both expected to play crucial roles. This reshaping of the team dynamics could provide Ball with the support he needs to transition back onto the court.
A Veteran Perspective
Returning to a team with many new faces, Ball acknowledges the youthful energy present in the Bulls' current roster. Despite feeling "a lot older coming back," Ball’s excitement for the upcoming season is palpable. "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 shared.
As the Chicago Bulls prepare for the season ahead, much hinges on Ball's journey back to full fitness and his ability to adapt his game. With careful management and a supportive team structure, the hope is that Lonzo Ball will not only make a comeback but also reclaim his pivotal role, guiding the Bulls through what promises to be an intriguing season.