The Chicago Bulls have been eagerly anticipating the return of their dynamic guard, Lonzo Ball, to the hardwood. Ball, who last saw NBA action on January 14, 2022, has been sidelined due to a torn meniscus and a series of rehabilitative setbacks.
Despite the protracted recovery process, Ball's optimism remains unshaken as he eyes readiness for the Bulls' first regular-season game. During the recent media day, he expressed his confidence, supported by his gradual return to more rigorous activities over the past few months. In March 2023, Ball underwent a third and experimental surgery — a cartilage transplant — after a second arthroscopic debridement procedure. By late August, he had progressed to participating in 5-on-5 scrimmages with fellow NBA players.
A Cautious Optimism
Bulls President Arturas Karnisovas shared a cautiously optimistic outlook, noting the importance of a measured approach as Ball reintegrates into full-team activities. "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... in how he can take loads, everyday practices," Karnisovas remarked.
Adapting to Change
Lonzo Ball himself recognizes the evolution his game will need to undergo 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," he explained thoughtfully. "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."
With significant roster changes since Ball's last season in Chicago, the team dynamics will undoubtedly shift. DeMar DeRozan and Alex Caruso, key players during Ball's initial season with the Bulls, are no longer on the team. Caruso was traded to Oklahoma City, with the Bulls acquiring Josh Giddey in return. Ball praised the new acquisition, stating, "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."
New Roles and Rising Stars
With Ball's return, the Bulls' backcourt will feature a blend of experience and emerging talents. Coby White, who was a finalist for Most Improved Player last year, and Ayo Dosunmu, who ended the previous season on a strong note, will both play crucial roles. Each player’s development will be pivotal for the team's success moving forward.
Ball, ever the competitor, remains unfazed by the pressure of returning to an altered team structure. "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 reflected.
As the Bulls gear up for training camp, the integration of Lonzo Ball back into the lineup will be a storyline to watch. With the combination of his refined skill set and leadership, the Bulls hope to leverage their transformed roster into a winning formula for the upcoming season.