Last season, Lonzo Ball was sidelined for the whole thing because of a knee ailment. Additionally, he is out for the remainder of the season. The Chicago Bulls have seen a decline in production during his absence.
Ball is almost guaranteed to exercise his player option for the upcoming season. But now he’s given Bulls supporters something to cheer about. Recently, a fresh video was shared on social media, showing the playmaking guard working out on the floor. He appears to be moving easily and with a fluid gait.
Ball’s last game was on January 14, 2022, against the Golden State Warriors, and he was 24 years old when he suffered the injury. The two-year absence from basketball inevitably implies a potential decrease in his overall performance level. Despite this setback, the Chicago Bulls had strategically built their team around Ball’s passing and defensive skills, envisioning him as a key player leading them to a championship. The intrinsic abilities tied to his passing and defense are not easily lost, and there’s hope that he can still fulfill the envisioned role for Chicago.
However, the road to recovery for Ball will be gradual. Overcoming on-court conditioning challenges associated with such a prolonged hiatus is a necessity. Additionally, regaining a consistent shooting rhythm will require time and effort. The Bulls must exercise patience in allowing him to return to an elite level of perimeter defense.
When Ball eventually rejoins the team, it will undoubtedly be a substantial improvement for the Bulls. Yet, there’s an intriguing aspect to consider regarding how his return might impact Coby White, who has been enjoying a breakout season. Fortunately for White, Ball’s return is unlikely to happen this season. Nonetheless, the upcoming season will bring uncertainties regarding Billy Donovan’s guard rotation.