The Chicago Bulls looked like a winning team the last time Lonzo Ball was playing in the NBA. That feels like a lifetime ago. In basketball terms, it pretty much is.
It has been more than two seasons since Ball stepped foot on the court at a competitive level. Over that time, he has undergone multiple surgeries.
It is believed that no professional athlete has returned to play at a high level from one of the procedures Ball underwent. So, when he next plays for the Bulls, he will be making history.
Of course, it would be a mistake to believe that Ball returning is guaranteed. It is not. But the noise coming out of training camp suggests that he is on the right path.
In fact, the belief is that he will be ready in time to take part in the Bulls' season opener.
Ball has made some promising comments recently as well. He said after the last practice session: "Today is probably my best day. It's getting better each time."
Lonzo after today's practice: "Today is probably my best day. It's getting better each time." pic.twitter.com/pPHdzN429o
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) October 4, 2024
If Ball is successful in returning to the court and looks anywhere near his old self, it would be a massive boost for the Bulls.
One cannot forget how good the Bulls had looked back when he was playing. Ball has averaged 13.0 points, 5.4 rebounds and 5.1 assists in 35 games for the franchise.
He is a very good defender and had also developed into an excellent three-point shooter before his injury. He has shot 42.3% from beyond the arc for the Bulls, making 110 of his 260 attempts. So, a fit Ball would be an asset to this team.
Of course, this is not the same roster. DeMar DeRozan and Alex Caruso left this summer. Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic are still here but believed to be available for trade. But Ball is still just 26 years old and would fit the timeline, even in a rebuild.
On the other hand, if Ball was able to prove his fitness, there would be no lack of trade interest in him either.
Let us not get ahead of ourselves though. Things need to be taken slow, especially when someone is returning from an injury layoff of that magnitude.
