Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball, who has been sidelined since January 14, 2022, remains optimistic about his return for the team's first regular-season game. Ball's prolonged absence was due to a series of knee issues, beginning with a torn meniscus, followed by various rehab setbacks. The All-Star guard recently shared his status and sentiments during the Bulls' media day.
With the backdrop of his injury woes, Ball underwent multiple surgeries, including an arthroscopic debridement procedure for his knee and an experimental cartilage transplant in March 2023. Despite the challenges, Ball resumed on-court activities in late August, participating in 5-on-5 scrimmages with other NBA players. Bulls President Arturas Karnisovas expressed a cautious optimism for Ball's readiness by opening night. However, it is anticipated that Ball will face a minutes restriction and potentially sit out back-to-back games initially.
"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 noted, underscoring the prudent approach the team is taking.
Ball himself remains confident in his ability to make an impact, despite acknowledging some changes to his playing style post-injury. "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 stated.
The Bulls' roster has seen notable changes since Ball's last game. DeMar DeRozan and Alex Caruso, who played pivotal roles during Ball's first season in Chicago, have both moved on. Specifically, Caruso was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder in exchange for the young and talented Josh Giddey. This trade adds a new dynamic to the team, with Giddey expected to bring his playmaking abilities to the forefront.
Addressing the new team composition and his returning role, Ball expressed his understanding and support for the team's decisions, "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 possible, and they feel like he can do it, we feel like he can do it, and that's why he's here."
As the Bulls prepare for the upcoming season, they'll also look to other key players to step up. Coby White, who was a finalist for Most Improved Player last year, and Ayo Dosunmu, who finished the previous season strong, will be instrumental in the Bulls' backcourt.
Reflecting on his role within a younger team, Ball shared his enthusiasm and maturity gained from his time away: "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's experience and optimism could be a crucial asset for the Bulls as they navigate the challenges of the season ahead.