Lonzo Ball’s arrival in Chicago provided hope for a true point guard that the Bulls hadn’t seen since Derrick Rose’s All-Star-level play nearly a decade ago. Off to the best start possible, he led the Bulls to the first seed in the Eastern Conference into January during his first season with the team. He was facilitating a group of elite scoring options with 5.1 assists per game and a 42.3% three-point clip; Chicago finally found their guy. Not appearing on the court since falling to injury early in 2022, he’s primed to make his official return to play this season. Head coach Billy Donovan advises the fanbase to proceed cautiously regarding their expectations for Ball as he rains on the parade a bit when referencing the return of his point guard.
Physically Incapable Of Returning To Form
As expected, after several surgeries on the same knee during a multi-year period, Ball will likely not be the player he was for the Bulls during the 2021-22 campaign. Almost certainly coming off the bench now while Josh Giddey assumes the starting role, Ball’s three-point ability and facilitating skills could make him a lethal sixth man for Chicago. Despite the offseason hype videos and podcast appearances reassuring him he’s feeling better than ever before, Donovan remains grounded that his 26-year-old guard is still not fit to perform his previous duties.
No Rush To Return
The luxury the Chicago Bulls have in this scenario is that Lonzo Ball doesn’t need to return to his previous self. With Giddey’s skillset plugged into the starting five, Ball’s talents will be pushed to the second unit flooded with guard talent. His experience and three-point shooting capabilities will earn his time on the court. Still, in the meantime, the emergence of Ayo Dosunmu, Coby White, Dalen Terry, and the defensive prowess of Jevon Carter can fulfill most of the responsibilities. The departure of Zach LaVine or any injury trouble would pave the way to more playing time for Ball.
He’s been medically cleared to return to 5v5 contact action, and although they have not released an official return date, it’ll be sometime this season. This is also the final season of his contract with Chicago, meaning this year will be a tryout of sorts, whether it be for the Bulls or elsewhere. Turning 27 before the season begins and headed to unrestricted free agency could be the final opportunity for the injury-riddled guard to earn another contract in the NBA.
Anticipation is at an all-time high for the return of the former UCLA guard who last led Chicago to a playoff appearance. Can he become acclimated throughout the season and contribute to the turning of the tides in the Windy City, or will this be the final season in the red and black for Ball?
