(670 The Score) It appears that Bulls guard Lonzo Ball could be headed for his third left knee surgery in a 15-month span.
Ball’s representation and the Bulls have continued consulting specialists recently, and the possibility is growing that Ball will need another procedure, likely later in March, Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reported Thursday morning. Ball, 25, has been sidelined all season as he rehabs his left knee, a process that has continued to stall because he experiences discomfort when he runs or cuts at full speed.
Ball hasn’t played in a game since Jan. 14, 2022. He then had left knee surgery to address a torn meniscus in late January 2022 and what the team called a cleanup procedure in late September. Ball also had left knee surgery in July 2018 while he played for the Lakers.
The Bulls officially shut down Ball in February, with their hope being that he could continue rehabbing and be ready to take the court next September for training camp. Another surgery would almost certainly push Ball’s timeline back again, as it would likely require six months of rehab, Wojnarowski reported.
Ball played in 35 games last season, averaging 13 points and 5.1 assists while also shooting 42.3% from 3-point range on high volume. He’s the catalyst of the Bulls’ transition game, a superb passer and a strong defender.
Without Ball, the Bulls have struggled this season. With 16 games remaining in their regular season, the Bulls are 30-36 and sit 11th in the East.
Ball is in the second season of a four-year, $80-million contract.
Listen live to 670 The Score via:
Audacy App | Online Stream | Smart Speaker