Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball made his much-anticipated return to the NBA court since January 14, 2022, in a game against the New Orleans Pelicans. Despite the Bulls’ 123-111 loss, Ball managed to score 5 points, dish out 4 assists, and grab 2 rebounds in just 14 minutes of play.
This comeback game for Ball was not met with much fanfare as he checked into the game in the first quarter without any special announcements. During the preseason, Ball had an emotional return following a knee surgery in March 2023, where his teammates honored him with the game ball and celebrated his return in the locker room.
In a post-game interview, Ball expressed his excitement to put his knee injury behind him and focus on playing basketball. He emphasized that the game remains the same, and he is ready to contribute to the team’s success.
Coach Billy Donovan has a plan to ease Ball back into the rotation by bringing him off the bench and limiting his playing time to 14-16 minutes per game for the time being. This approach marks a significant change for Ball, as he last came off the bench in December 2019.
During the game against the Pelicans, Ball made an impact in the limited time he had on the court. He sank a 3-pointer in the first quarter and played extended minutes in the second quarter. Despite the minutes restriction, Ball remained aggressive and focused on providing a spark off the bench.
Looking ahead, the Bulls will closely monitor Ball’s playing time and ensure that he does not play on consecutive nights to prioritize his health and recovery. With upcoming games in Milwaukee and a home opener, the team will assess Ball’s condition before making decisions about his participation.
Overall, Lonzo Ball’s return to the Bulls lineup is a positive development for the team and fans alike. His performance in his comeback game shows promise for his future contributions as he continues to adjust to his new role and playing conditions. As Ball continues to regain his rhythm and confidence on the court, the Bulls can look forward to his continued growth and impact throughout the season.
