Chicago Bulls point guard Lonzo Ball is anticipated to be sidelined for the entirety of the upcoming 2023-24 NBA season as he continues to recover from a series of surgeries on his left knee. The second overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft underwent a cartilage transplant procedure in March, causing him to miss the entire 2022-23 season.
This marks Ball's third surgery on the same knee, an injury that has prevented him from playing since January 14, 2022. Bulls executive vice president of basketball operations, Arturas Karnisovas, recently stated that the team is preparing for the season under the assumption that Ball will not return. While a comeback would be welcomed, it's not currently part of the team's plans.
Ball's initial surgery to address a torn meniscus occurred in February 2022, sidelining him for the remainder of that season. A second procedure followed in September 2022, ultimately leading to the third surgery in March 2023 and the announcement that he would miss the entirety of the 2022-23 season.
In a statement released in March, Ball expressed his frustration with the prolonged recovery process but remained optimistic about his future return to the court. He emphasized his commitment to rehabilitation and his eagerness to rejoin his teammates.
Karnisovas recently mentioned that Ball has begun walking with crutches, offering a glimmer of hope for his eventual return. However, he reiterated the team's expectation that Ball will not be available for the next season.
Drafted second overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2017, Ball was a highly anticipated prospect coming out of UCLA. He was later traded to the New Orleans Pelicans as part of the deal that sent Anthony Davis to the Lakers. In 2021, Ball signed a four-year, $85 million contract with the Bulls through a sign-and-trade agreement with the Pelicans.
Throughout his career, Ball has averaged 11.9 points, 6.2 assists, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game.
