Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball, radiating cautious optimism, shared his hopes of being ready for the team's first regular-season game during the recent media day. The path that led him to this point has been anything but smooth, marked by a series of injuries and surgeries that sidelined him significantly.
Ball's last NBA appearance dates back to January 14, 2022. His prolonged absence stemmed from a torn meniscus in his knee, a debilitating injury compounded by multiple setbacks during rehabilitation. The road to recovery saw Ball undergo a second knee surgery, an arthroscopic debridement procedure, followed months later by a third and experimental surgery - a cartilage transplant in March 2023.
Despite these challenges, Ball began participating in 5-on-5 scrimmages with other NBA players by late August, a significant milestone in his recovery. However, Bulls President Arturas Karnisovas remains cautiously optimistic about Ball's readiness for opening night, noting the need for a careful approach to his integration into the team.
"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 remarked.
Ball himself acknowledges the necessity for adaptation, candidly discussing the changes in his game 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," he stated.
The Bulls will be navigating the new season without key players who significantly contributed during Ball's first season with Chicago. DeMar DeRozan and Alex Caruso, both pivotal figures, are no longer on the roster. Caruso was traded to Oklahoma City in a deal that brought Josh Giddey to Chicago. Despite these changes, Ball remains confident about the team's potential.
"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 expressed.
As Ball prepares for his return, the expectations are managed carefully. He is expected to be on a minutes restriction and likely will not participate in back-to-back games. This cautious approach aims to ensure longevity and consistent performance throughout the season.
Younger players like Coby White and Ayo Dosunmu are expected to step up significantly. White, who was a finalist for Most Improved Player a year ago, and Dosunmu, who ended the previous season on a strong note, are now in crucial roles. Such dynamics introduce a blend of youth and experience, vital for the team's chemistry and success.
Reflecting on his readiness and the fresh atmosphere in the team, Ball 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." His sentiments encapsulate a blend of resilience and anticipation, essential for steering the Bulls through a pivotal season.
Ball's journey back to the court is emblematic of unwavering determination and resilience. As the Bulls move towards a new chapter, the integration of seasoned skills with emerging talent may well define their narrative in the upcoming NBA season. The team’s management and fans alike will be watching closely, hopeful that the wait for Ball's return will translate into tangible success on the floor.