Dec 11, 2021; Miami, Florida, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball sits court-side prior to the game against the Miami Heat at FTX Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
NBA: Chicago Bulls at Miami Heat
(New York, NY) — Chicago Bulls point guard Lonzo Ball just cant catch a break.
According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Ball will undergo a third surgery on his injured left knee. Woj, adds “there are concerns about Ball’s ability to resume his career and hopes that this surgery — which could cost Ball another full season away — will give him a pathway to play again.”
Ball has not played since Jan. 14, 2022, undergoing two surgeries the past 14 months. The belief is that a third surgery is necessary to give him a chance at returning to the league.
The 25-year-old’s original timetable was 6-8 weeks, and about 60 weeks later, he’s set to miss another full season.
Ball and the Bulls organization have reportedly been “perplexed” by the prolonged recovery. The California native hasn’t been able to run, jump, or cut without experiencing discomfort in his knee, according to ESPN.
“My main focus has been on returning to the court and getting to a place where I can rejoin my teammates,” Ball said in a statement from the team. “This has been a frustrating process, but I’m confident these next steps are the best path forward. The support of my family, friends, fans and medical staff throughout my recovery is what keeps me moving forward. I can’t wait to get back to what I love doing most – playing basketball.”
Balls currently is the second season of a four-year, $80 million free agent contract with the Bulls.
