Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball is optimistic about his return to the court, expressing confidence in being ready for the team's first regular-season game during the recent media day. The former No. 2 overall pick last played in an NBA game on January 14, 2022, but a series of setbacks has extended his absence far longer than anyone anticipated.
Ball initially suffered a torn meniscus in his knee, an injury that typically sidelines players for weeks, not years. However, complications during his rehabilitation process led to the need for additional medical procedures. He underwent a second knee surgery, specifically an arthroscopic debridement, before finally having a third and experimental surgery—a cartilage transplant—in March 2023.
In late August, Ball took a significant step forward by participating in 5-on-5 scrimmages with other NBA players. While Bulls President Arturas Karnisovas remains cautiously optimistic about Ball being ready for opening night, he also stresses the need for a gradual approach. "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 said.
Ball acknowledges that his game will need to adapt given his long recovery. "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 explained.
The Bulls are preparing for a season of transformation. DeMar DeRozan and Alex Caruso, who were pivotal during Ball's first season with Chicago, are no longer on the team. In an effort to reshape the roster, the Bulls traded Caruso to Oklahoma City, acquiring Josh Giddey as part of the deal.
While Giddey brings his own set of skills to the team, Ball sees it as a necessary move for a franchise focused on winning. "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.
While the roster changes present new challenges, other players have shown significant development. Coby White was a finalist for Most Improved Player last year, and Ayo Dosunmu finished the previous season strong, now finding himself in a crucial role.
Ball reflects on returning to a team in transition but remains excited about the journey ahead. "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.
Though Ball is expected to be on a minutes restriction and likely will not participate in back-to-back games initially, his return marks a significant milestone for both him and the Bulls. The focus now shifts to how quickly he can re-integrate and make an impact on a team striving to climb the ranks in a competitive league.