USA Today via Reuters
Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball (2) reacts after making a shot during the first half against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Paul Rutherford-USA TODAY Sports | Credit: Reuters
USA Today via Reuters
Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball (2) reacts after making a shot during the first half against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Paul Rutherford-USA TODAY Sports | Credit: Reuters
With the 2024 NBA regular season kicking off in October, players have already begun their individual practices in preparation, even though official team practices don’t start until September. Recently, Lonzo Ball was spotted playing in a 5-on-5 open run in Los Angeles. After tearing his meniscus in January 2022 and being out of action, he’s been showing out in the recent practice game, and it looks like he’s ready to make his return to the NBA.
In their recent podcast, Gilbert Arenas and his crew discussed Lonzo Ball’s highly anticipated return to the NBA following his recovery. “I mean, I just hate that happened to him because that was the Bulls’ downfall on their success.” Brandon Jennings said. Before Lonzo’s injury in the 2022 season, the Chicago Bulls were cruising with a 27-13 record. But after his injury, they ended up with a 78-88 record. It wasn’t just Lonzo’s absence that hurt—injuries piled up across the team.
USA Today via Reuters
Dec 20, 2021; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball (2) shoots the ball against Houston Rockets forward Kenyon Martin Jr. (6) during the first half at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports
The Bulls team really missed Lonzo’s playmaking, shooting, and defense. Even with Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan, they couldn’t get it done without a solid point guard like Lonzo. Additionally, Alex Caruso also got injured that season, which made it an especially tough year for the Bulls.
With Lonzo back on the squad, things might actually improve for the Bulls. Averaging over 12 points, 6 assists, and 6 rebounds for his career, Lonzo has proven he can make an impact on both ends of the court. However, according to Josiah Johnson, no NBA player has returned to play after a cartilage transplant, making Lonzo the first to attempt it. So, will he be able to bring his A-game to the court next season?
How Much Can Lonzo Ball Contribute After Recovering from His Injury?
After another tough season, finishing 9th in the Eastern Conference with a 39-43 record, the Bulls clearly need help and are hoping that Lonzo Ball will be healthy enough to turn things around.”Hopefully we can get Lonzo back,” Bulls head coach Billy Donovan said during an interview. “He’s moving closer… he’s a guy that everyone enjoys playing with and I think the same can be said for Josh.”
However, Lonzo Ball has just recovered from an injury that kept him out for 2 years. The fact that Lonzo had to undergo three surgeries and is still experiencing pain highlights how serious his injury is. So, if he returns next season, there’s no guarantee he’ll be able to play the full season. “He[Lonzo Ball] gets sixty games, man that’s amazing. I mean, if he did 40 or if he did every other game, I will be fine with that as a fan, right?” Gilbert Arenas said when asked how many games he expects Lonzo Ball to play in the upcoming season. “Like, just get through this season for your mental.”
Arenas emphasized that getting through the season is important for Lonzo’s confidence and mental health after being out for two years. He also made it clear he didn’t expect Lonzo to come back and snag “Comeback Player of the Year” because that was a bit too much to ask.
With all this in mind, how do you think Lonzo Ball will perform for the Bulls this season?
Before you go, do not forget to check out this crossover between BG12 and Georgia Bulldogs star Asia Avinger.
Debate
Can Lonzo Ball be the savior the Chicago Bulls desperately need after his long injury break?