After more than two years of being sidelined by knee injuries, Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball expects to make his long-awaited return for the 2024-25 NBA season.
Ball expressed confidence in his recovery, stating, “I think I’ll be ready for the first game for sure,” during the Bulls’ media day.
Ball hasn’t played since January 2022 due to a series of knee injuries that have kept him out of action for over two seasons. His journey to recovery has been long and challenging, involving multiple surgeries, including a meniscus transplant and a cartilage transplant.
Ball was initially traded to the Bulls in August 2021 in a sign-and-trade deal from the New Orleans Pelicans. After signing a four-year, $85 million contract extension, he had a strong start with the Bulls. His debut season with the team was promising, as he averaged 13 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.1 assists while shooting 42% from three-point range.
However, his 2021-22 season was cut short due to a meniscus tear in his left knee. In January 2022, Ball underwent surgery and was initially expected to miss six to eight weeks. Despite his efforts to rehabilitate, Ball experienced persistent discomfort, leading the Bulls to rule him out for the remainder of the season.
In 2022, Ball underwent another procedure, an arthroscopic debridement, to address the lingering issues in his knee. Still, he missed the entire 2022-23 season as his knee failed to fully heal. In March 2023, he underwent a cartilage transplant, which was seen as a crucial step in his recovery.
By July 2024, Ball had been cleared to participate in full-contact five-on-five scrimmages. He began participating in August, and as of now, he has experienced no setbacks in his recovery.
Ball’s return could significantly boost the Bulls, who have struggled in his absence. During the 2021-22 season, when Ball was healthy, Chicago held the best record in the Eastern Conference at 27-13. His ability to contribute as a versatile guard with strong defensive skills, combined with his improved shooting, made him an integral part of the Bulls’ success.
The question remains how Ball will perform after such a long absence, but he is ready to embrace the challenge. His return is one of the most anticipated storylines for the Bulls this season, and all eyes will be on him as he works to reclaim his place as a key player on the team.
