The Chicago Bulls’ training camp is on the horizon, and all eyes are set on the return of Lonzo Ball, who has expressed optimism about his availability for the season opener. Ball, who hasn’t played in an NBA game since January 14, 2022, has endured an arduous journey of rehabilitation after a torn meniscus in his knee sidelined him.
A Path Marked by Surgeries and Setbacks
The talented guard's recovery has been anything but straightforward. Following the initial injury, Ball's rehab was marred by setbacks, leading to a second surgery — an arthroscopic debridement procedure. Most notably, in March 2023, he underwent a third, experimental surgery involving a cartilage transplant. These series of surgeries were crucial in Ball’s efforts to return to the court.
Restarting with Caution
Despite the extensive medical intervention, the Bulls’ front office remains cautiously optimistic about Ball’s return. Arturas Karnisovas, Bulls President, underscored this cautiousness, stating, "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."
Ball’s recent participation in 5-on-5 scrimmages in late August has offered a glimmer of hope. However, the plan is to ease him back into regular competition, with expected minutes restrictions and avoidance of back-to-back games. The caution is well-founded, given the serious nature of his injuries and the grueling schedule of an NBA season.
Ball's Perspective
From Ball’s viewpoint, there's a pragmatic acknowledgment of the physical changes he’s undergone. "Obviously I'm not going to be as athletic as I once was before," he admitted. "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."
Team Dynamics and New Faces
The Bulls' roster has seen significant changes since Ball’s last game. Key contributors DeMar DeRozan and Alex Caruso, pivotal during Ball's first season with Chicago, are no longer with the team. Caruso’s trade to Oklahoma City, which brought in Josh Giddey, altered the team dynamics considerably.
Reflecting on the team’s new look, Ball said, "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 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."
Rising Stars and Crucial Roles
As the Bulls prepare for a new season, they’ll likely depend on emerging talents. Coby White, who was in contention for Most Improved Player of the Year, and Ayo Dosunmu, who finished the previous season strong, are expected to take on more prominent roles. This transition period promises to be pivotal for the team's future trajectory, with Ball potentially playing a stabilizing role.
Ball’s return has sparked a mix of excitement and apprehension, both from himself and the organization. "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," Ball stated, expressing his readiness to reintegrate into this evolving Bulls squad.
As the Bulls inch closer to the new season, Ball’s progress will be a storyline to follow closely. His blend of experience, basketball acumen, and the journey through adversity may yet offer significant contributions to a Chicago team eager to forge its new identity and secure victories.