Bulls point guard Lonzo Ball has been out since February 28 due to a sprained right wrist and isn’t ready to return quite yet, but he still intends to make it back before the end of the regular season, tweets Julia Poe of The Chicago Tribune.
Ball took part in a 5-on-5 scrimmage at the Bulls’ practice on Wednesday (Twitter video link via Poe) and was “upbeat and optimistic” afterwards when he spoke to reporters, according to K.C. Johnson of the Chicago Sports Network (Twitter link).
The expectation is that Ball will need another week to get his conditioning back up to speed. Poe suggests that next Friday’s game against Portland might be a target date for his return.
Ball returned to action last fall after having been sidelined for more than two-and-a-half years due to a series of knee problems. Given how long he was away from the game, it has been a successful comeback season in 2024/25 for the 27-year-old, who has averaged 7.6 points, 3.4 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.3 steals in 22.2 minutes per game across 35 outings (14 starts). The Bulls have posted a +5.5 net rating when he’s on the court, compared to a -4.8 mark when he’s not.
Although the knee injury hasn’t been a problem for Ball this season, his wrist has been a recurring issue. He missed 15 straight games in October and November due to a right wrist sprain, so this is his second extended absence this season as a result of that same injury.
According to Poe and Johnson (Twitter links), Ball has been experiencing pain during his shooting follow-through all season and doesn’t expect his wrist to be pain-free until he gets the opportunity for a longer recovery period during the offseason.
While Ball entered the season on an expiring contract, he signed an extension with Chicago last month and now has a guaranteed $10MM salary for next season, followed by a $10MM team option in 2026/27.
Aggravated his wrist injury signing his new contract.
Just amazing to see how many various injuries both Ball brothers have gone through over the past few years. Out of 13 seasons combined, only 2 saw them play 60+ games.
If they recruit LiAngelo they probably could have a competitive Big3 team, the season is shorter.
Maybe it’s time for a new leadership in the front office.
“Josh Giddey Is Only 2025 RFA To Meet Starter Criteria So Far”
link to hoopsrumors.com
I’m Nets I offer Josh a 5 yr deal. Let Russell walk. NY will love his style of play. Court vision and ast player. Who’s scoring is still improving.
Bulls would match anything offered.
Oh Boy. I can smell Playoff wins already.
Him and poly williams will bring the ring to us. O yeah, very great movement by akme. Trade away coby,giddey,mattas, and draft another bust.. I bet u can do better uncle. A am sick with this fo.