Feb 28, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Lonzo Ball (2) hits a three point shot against Toronto Raptors guard Jamal Shead (23) during overtime at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images

Bulls Coach Billy Donovan Announces Lonzo Ball Injury Update

Originally posted on Chicago Bulls on SI
By Farbod Esnaashari | Last updated Apr 2, 2025 11:39 PM ET

Lonzo Ball has not played a game for the Chicago Bulls since February 28 against the Toronto Raptors. He's been out for 16 games straight with no clear return in sight, and fans have been eagerly awaiting an update as the Bulls gear up for the play-in tournament.

While Ball hasn't been playing, he still hasn't been ruled out for the season yet.

Chicago Bulls coach Billy Donovan was interviewed by Julia Poe of the Chicago Tribune, where he revealed the latest update on Ball.

“There’s no problem medically — from what I’ve been told by the people that have been dealing with his wrist — of him going out there and playing,” Donovan said. “Whenever he does get back to playing, if he falls on it wrong, he’s going to be right back to where he was. If he can get back and play to a point where he feels comfortable that he can be productive out there, we’re going to play him.”

According to Poe, the big issue with Ball is pain. He has't been pain free since suffering a wrist sprain in October and he wouldn't be pain free or fully healed even if he's cleared to play.

Billy Donovan says Lonzo Ball isn’t putting himself at greater risk of injury by coming back, but his wrist, “is not going to resolve itself for months”

No intention of him having surgery at this time pic.twitter.com/i7GZcuPG1S
— CHGO Bulls (@CHGO_Bulls) April 1, 2025

Even though Ball had a triumphant return from injury this season, he's still struggled to remain healthy. The 27-year-old guard has only played in 35 games this season, missing a total of 31 games.

Through those 25 games, Ball has averaged 7.6 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.3 assists on 37/34/82 shooting from the field.

Hopefully, the Chicago Bulls will have a chance to enter the play-in tournament at full strength with Ball in the lineup.

This article first appeared on Chicago Bulls on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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