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[Jolly Sports News] Lonzo Ball suffered a series of knee injuries and surgeries in the winter of 2022, forcing him to sit out the 2021-22 season. What no one expected was that he’d be sidelined for over two-and-a-half years. As Ball prepares for a potential return next season, his teammate Nikola Vucevic shared some encouraging words.
“I’ve heard he’s been looking good … doing everything he can to get back. I’m excited to see him back in Chicago and hope he can play again. At 26, missing two-and-a-half years is tough, with surgeries and treatments. I really hope it pays off for him, and he can rejoin us. His talent means so much to our team.”
Ball was a key player for the Bulls at the start of the 2021-22 season, helping them secure the No. 1 seed in the East before his injury derailed their momentum. Vucevic emphasized Ball’s impact on both ends of the floor.
“When he was playing, we were much better. His playmaking, defense, and shotmaking were crucial. Losing him made things tricky because we never knew how long he’d be out.”
Ball averaged 13.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.1 assists that season. While he may not reach those numbers right away after such a long absence, a rebuilding year could provide the perfect opportunity for Ball to reestablish himself, despite the crowded guard rotation with Ayo Dosunmu, Coby White, and new addition Josh Giddey.
