Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball is signaling optimism ahead of the upcoming NBA season, indicating his readiness for the team's first regular-season game at the recent media day. Ball’s journey back to the court has been fraught with challenges, having last played in an NBA game on January 14, 2022.
Ball's extended absence stems from a torn meniscus in his knee and subsequent setbacks in the rehabilitation process. The point guard has undergone multiple surgeries, including an arthroscopic debridement procedure and, most recently in March 2023, an experimental cartilage transplant. Despite these hurdles, Ball has begun to ramp up his activity, participating in 5-on-5 scrimmages with NBA players as of late August.
A Cautiously Optimistic Return
Bulls President Arturas Karnisovas remains cautiously optimistic about Ball's readiness for the season opener. "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," said Karnisovas.
The Bulls plan to manage Ball's return carefully, with expectations of a minutes restriction and avoidance of back-to-back game participation. This measured approach aims to preserve Ball’s health while ensuring he can contribute effectively over the long season.
Adjusting to New Realities
The absence span and surgical interventions have naturally altered Ball's physical capabilities. He acknowledges the changes to his game but remains confident in his skills. "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 remarked.
The team dynamics have also shifted in Ball's absence. DeMar DeRozan and Alex Caruso, instrumental during Ball's inaugural season with the Bulls, are no longer on the roster. Caruso was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder with Josh Giddey coming to Chicago in return. Adjusting to this new lineup, Ball remains optimistic about the team's prospects. "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 commented.
New Roles and Young Talent
Alongside new teammate Giddey, Ball will also see contributions from returning players like Coby White and Ayo Dosunmu. White was a finalist for the Most Improved Player award last year, while Dosunmu concluded the previous season on a strong note, positioning himself for a crucial role in the lineup.
Ball’s return will inevitably inject a seasoned presence into the young squad. Reflecting on his role, he shared, "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."
As the Bulls approach training camp and the subsequent season, the NBA community will watch closely how Ball integrates back into the team and how his redefined game impacts Chicago's performance. With careful management and strategic playtime adjustments, the Bulls aim to maximize Ball's contributions while maintaining his long-term health—a balance crucial for both player and team success.