The Chicago Bulls privately don’t think it’s likely Lonzo Ball will ever play again, according to NBA insider Dan Bernstein.
Ball underwent a cartilage transplant in his left knee in March. The point guard, who missed the entire 2022-23 season, is expected to miss all of next season.
Ball has undergone three surgeries on his left knee. The UCLA product hasn’t played in an NBA game since January 14, 2022.
“My main focus has been on returning to the court and getting to a place where I can rejoin my teammates,” Ball said in March. “This has been a frustrating process, but I’m confident these next steps are the best path forward. The support of my family, friends, fans and medical staff throughout my recovery is what keeps me moving forward. I can’t wait to get back to what I love doing most – playing basketball.”
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Lonzo Ball & Chicago Bulls Updates
Ball, who began his career with the Los Angeles Lakers, signed a four-year, $80 million contract with the Bulls in August 2021 as part of a sign-and-trade deal with the New Orleans Pelicans. The 25-year-old averaged 13.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.1 assists in 2021-22 while shooting 42.3% from the field, 42.3% from beyond the arc, and 75.0% from the free-throw line.
The older brother of Charlotte Hornets All-Star LaMelo Ball, Lonzo has career averages of 11.9 points, 5.7 rebounds and 6.2 assists with the Lakers, Pelicans, and Bulls. Chicago executive vice president of basketball operations Artūras Karnišovas said in March that the organization will continue to support Ball.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Lonzo Ball & Chicago Bulls Updates
“I continue to admire Lonzo’s perseverance throughout this journey,” Karnišovas said. “This has been a long and challenging road for him, and this decision has been a difficult one to make. The organization is behind him, and he has our full support. Our training and medical staff continue their commitment to Lonzo’s rehabilitation and to working with him throughout this next phase to ensure his healthy return to basketball.”
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