The Chicago Bulls have decided to shut down point guard Lonzo Ball for the remainder of the 2022-23 NBA season. Ball has not played this season due to knee pain after undergoing two different surgeries. He has not played in an NBA game since January of 2022. Both Ball and the Chicago Bulls are not sure why the point guard is still experiencing knee pain, but what to work the issue out before he returns to the NBA court. The goal for the team now is to get his knee feeling better and getting him ready for the 2023-24 NBA season. Chicago signed point guard Patrick Beverley for the rest of the season to fill the need on the roster.
The Chicago Bulls are expected to shut down guard Lonzo Ball for the remainder of the season, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Pain and discomfort have persisted in Ball’s left knee following two surgeries at the beginning and end of 2022.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 21, 2023
Last season with the Chicago Bulls, Lonzo Ball averaged 13 points, 5.4 rebounds, 5.1 assists, and 1.8 steals per game. He paired those numbers with a field goal percentage of 42.3 percent and a three-point percentage of 42.3 percent. Ball has grown into a talented playmaker and defender with a growing scoring game. The Bulls have missed him this season, but his long-term health is the goal for both the team and Ball. Injuries, including this one, have decimated the team this season.
Chicago did not make a move at the 2022-23 NBA Trade Deadline but did maintain their overall core in the process. They are also in a position to have a top pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. Overall this year quickly became a rebuilding year for the franchise. The hope is they can get Lonzo Ball back on track and turn the team around for next season. We here at Def Pen Sports wish Ball the best in his recovery and eventual return to the court.
