When will Lonzo Ball return? What is Ball’s timeline? Who will take his place? The main theme of the Chicago Bulls media day on Monday was undoubtedly the situation of Ball, who is due to have another knee surgery that will keep him out for at least 4-6 weeks. It’s a major setback for a Bulls club that has been without Ball since January of last season, when he tore his meniscus. He was anticipated to return in 4-6 weeks, but he blew over that timeline and never played for Chicago again last season due to delays in rehab.
Last week, it was confirmed that he would have a second surgery on the same knee on Wednesday, meaning the Bulls will have to start the season without their starting point guard.
On Tuesday, Ball spoke with reporters about his injury, claiming that he still can’t run, jump, or even walk up a flight of stairs without feeling agony in his left knee.
“There was a period where we’d warm up and whatnot, and I’d go through certain days and it’d be OK,” Ball said via video conference with reporters. “When it came to actual basketball activities, I just couldn’t do it. Unfortunately, this is the situation that must be addressed. Again, we believe that surgery is the best option.”
Given the length of time it took to go back on the court, Ball described his condition as unique.