Lonzo Ball could come off the bench as per Bulls' latest scrimmage video ahead of injury return
Lonzo Ball’s over-two-year injury layoff seems to be coming to an end. The point guard completed five-on-five scrimmages in early August without suffering a regression on his surgically repaired left knee. Although he was projected to participate in the Chicago Bulls’ training camp, fans on social media were still pleasantly surprised he showed up.
On Day 2 of the Bulls’ training camp, various highlights of the former Laker participating in drills promptly went viral. One clip showed him driving to the paint, following what looked like a pick-and-roll action before tossing a lob to Matas Buzelis. The rookie completed the play with aplomb by slamming the ball.
Based on the video, the Chicago Bulls may be planning for Ball to come off the bench to start the season. Zach LaVine, who chased “Zo” in the play, played with Nikola Vucevic, Ayo Dosunmu and Jevon Carter. Ball was on the court with players who might be coach Billy Donovan’s second stringers.
Chicago Bulls vice president of basketball operations Arturas Karnisovas said during the team’s media day that he hoped “Zo” could play on opening night. Two days of training camp might be jumping the gun on Ball’s availability, but the Bulls are excited to see him play again.
If Ball does get the green light, Donovan can ease him back into action after the acquisition of Josh Giddey in the offseason. It will be a stunning development if Ball starts after more than two years on the injury list.
Lonzo Ball led the Chicago Bulls in assists in his only healthy season with the team
In Lonzo Ball’s only healthy season with the Chicago Bulls, he led the team in assists with 5.1 dimes per game. DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine did their share in the playmaking, but Donovan’s offense was mainly in Ball's hands.
“Zo” also formed a strong defensive partnership with Alex Caruso during his 35-game stint during the 2021-22 season. Orchestrating the offense, though, was Ball’s biggest responsibility.
The Bulls are taking Ball’s training camp participation before the 2024-25 campaign as day-to-day. Donovan could get a better picture of Ball’s status if the point guard has the clearance to play limited preseason minutes.
The Chicago Bulls will be thrilled if they can get the same player who led them in assists a few seasons ago.