Image source: Sports Illustrated
Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball may miss training camp as he remains a doubt for the start of the regular season.
According to ESPN’s Ramon Shelburne and Jamal Collier, Ball may miss training camp as he remains doubtful for the start of the regular season.
The operation
Lonzo Ball’s operation took place in January and repaired his knee injury.
Sources report that while Ball’s knee remains structurally intact, he continues to experience persistent pain while in rehab on the West Coast.
Initially, the Bulls guard was given six to eight weeks to recover, but Ball’s knee did not recover in time to return to the team for the final stretch of the season.
Previous reports
In mid-July, NBC Sports Chicago released a similar report, saying Ball’s rehabilitation efforts included starts and stops.
Ball reportedly had discomfort trying to increase his workload.
The report coincided with the Bulls’ statement in which Vice President Artūras Karnišovas was talking about a summer championship game on an NBA television broadcast.
He said Ball is “getting better — probably not at the speed that we would like. But he’s getting better.”
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Positive sentiments
NBC Sports Chicago shared two positive updates during the tapings of the Bulls Talk podcast discussing Lonzo Ball.
The Bulls have faith in Ball, and it was evident when Karnišovas aggressively chased him in the 2021 outdoor season.
The team ultimately lost a second-round pick after the NBA determined it had premature discussions with a rep before executing its signing and swap deal.
Lonzo ball
Lonzo Ball’s recovery could be a major blow for next season as management hopes for better health and base continuity to revive the Eastern Conference offense.
The Bulls have been working with Ball specialists this off season and are confident Ball will continue to make progress.
His knee was also operated on in 2018 when the guard played for the Lakers, and he remains structurally healthy.
Instead, it’s the bony bruise that precedes the January meniscus tear that riddled Ball’s rehabilitation.
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Chicago Bulls
Lonzo Ball has signed with the Bulls for four seasons.
The Bulls added depth to the playmaker position when they brought veteran Goran Dragić to free agency.
They also kept Coby White despite handling commercial deals that didn’t move the needle for management.
Meanwhile, Caruso and Ayo Dosunmu will play a leading role in the rotation of the defensive field.
If Ball remains sidelined, rookie Dalen Terry may get his chance to start in his place.
Reference:
Bulls’ Lonzo Ball doubtful for start of NBA season, per report
Bulls taking long view regarding Lonzo Ball’s lingering knee issue
