Key Takeaways:
– Lonzo Ball takes up his $21.4 million player option with the Chicago Bulls for the 2024-25 season.
– Following a knee injury, Ball has been on the bench since January 14, 2022, resulting in him missing 2.5 seasons.
– While recovery identified to take 4 or 5 months, Ball’s return into the next season remains doubtful.
– The Bulls may receive $21 million in relief if Ball’s knee injury is deemed career-ending.
– Amidst speculations, the Bulls executive VP awaits Ball’s progress in the coming months.
NBA star Lonzo Ball has committed to the Chicago Bulls for the 2024-2025 season, accepting his $21.4 million player option despite an ongoing knee injury. After signing a four-year, $80 million free-agent deal in 2021, Ball has remained side-lined for almost 2.5 seasons following his knee injury in January 2022.
Ongoing Recovery Journey
Ball has undergone multiple surgeries on his knee. His recovery period was initially slated for six-to-eight weeks, yet, he hasn’t returned to the court. Ball’s father, LaVar Ball, anticipates his return will take at least another four or five months.
Expressing optimism about his son’s recovery, LaVar stated that his son isn’t in pain but would need to regain strength before he can return to being his usual self on the court. He dismissed the idea that previous failed recoveries from alike procedures would impact his son’s comeback.
Progressive Outlook
The Bulls are encouraged by Ball’s progress, with reports of him running, cutting, jumping, and responding well to workouts. Bulls’ head coach Billy Donovan noted that the team is eagerly watching Ball’s progress. Simultaneously, Bulls’ executive VP of basketball operations, Arturas Karnisovas, stated that they are in a ‘wait-and-see’ mode regarding any potential relief filing.
Monetary Relief for the Bulls
If Ball’s injury is ruled career-ending by an independent NBA panel, The Bulls could find relief equating to $21 million. However, this remains uncertain as Ball is focused on making a return, contradicting any career-ending speculations.
Challenging Timeline for Bulls
The timeline of Ball’s return poses a significant challenge for the Bulls during a crucial time for the organization. Upcoming events like the 2024 NBA Draft, set to commence on June 27, followeed closely by the opening of NBA free agency, makes Ball’s spot in the team unclear.
Counsel from the Past
The scenario has drawn parallels with former Portland Trail Blazers star, Brandon Roy, whose career was hindered by knee injuries. Roy expressed his concern for Ball, advising him to have realistic expectations about what he can do following his return.
Ball’s basketball prowess isn’t grounded in explosive athleticism, which could be beneficial during his recovery. However, getting back to the top of his game upon his return could be challenging, considering the crowded Bulls’ backcourt.
Watching the Clock
With Ball’s father projecting a four or five-month recovery period, his return could coincide with the pre-season preparations if everything goes per plan. However, the Chicago Bulls cannot afford to put everything on hold and are keen to ascertain Ball’s outlook before delving too deep into their offseason strategies.
This eventful off-season for the Bulls, laden with roster changes and injury recovery uncertainty, will definitely provide an intriguing watch for NBA fans around the world.