Why Lonzo Ball's progress in training is a welcome sign
Lonzo Ball is moving on to the next phase in his recovery. The play-making whizz has missed the last two years due to a torn meniscus in his knee. He last played in the NBA on Jan. 14, 2022, in a loss to the Golden State Warriors.
According to Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan, Ball is showing some positive signs in his work with the training staff. He has recently been running, cutting and jumping as he embraces the next phase of his rehab.
"Some of the workouts have been really, really positive. In terms of the running, cutting, jumping, doing those things," Donovan said. "He has responded well. Some of the things that medical guys have shown me is he looks good moving. I'm just really happy for him personally for his progress. He has worked hard to put himself in this position. And hopefully, he can continue to progress."
Ball's future in the NBA is still an open question. When he eventually returns to the court, he will need to prove his injury issues are behind him. He's also lost two years of development time. His ceiling has undoubtedly been lowered due to his prolonged absence from elite level basketball. Still, his play-making and defense will ensure he remains an impactful member of a rotation.
Heading into next season, Ball will be entering the final year of his four-year, $80 million deal. That year is a player option which he will undoubtedly pick up. As such, he will find himself in something of an audition. If he plays well, he may field offers at a similar level to his current deal. If he struggles or can't stay healthy, he will likely be looking at short-term deals with a significant pay cut.
Either way, the Bulls figure to be pleased to get their star guard back in the rotation. Their current roster was built around his passing and defense. His absence has been a primary reason why the team has struggled over the past two seasons. There could be quiet optimism that Ball's return will see Donovan's team emerge as a genuine playoff threat.
Of course, a lot will depend on how Ball performs once he's back on the floor. For now, though, all eyes will be on his continued rehabilitation and whether he can avoid any further setbacks.
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