Chicago Bulls reportedly believe Lonzo Ball will not play ever again / News - Basketnews.com

Although the organization has publicly declared optimistic messages, Chicago Bulls beat writer Dan Bernstein reports that they don't believe Lonzo Ball will ever play again. No player has returned to the court after a cartilage transplant in NBA history.

Credit: USA TODAY Sports - Scanpix Credit USA TODAY Sports - Scanpix

Lonzo Ball's career has been riddled with injuries, forcing him to miss the entire 2022-23 NBA season. With an additional procedure recently done, he is likely to miss the 2023-24 season as well.

Lonzo Ball

Team:Chicago BullsPosition:PGAge:25Height:198 cmWeight:86 kgBirth place:California, United States of AmericaProfileNewsStatistics

Ball required a cartilage transplant, which is a very rare procedure in the sports world. No player has returned to the basketball court from such surgery in NBA history.

Taking all things into consideration, Chicago Bulls beat writer Dan Bernstein now reports that the organization doesn't believe the guard will make a successful comeback.

"Even though publicly there has been an expression of guarded optimism regarding a future for Lonzo Ball, they don't think it's likely that he ever plays again," he said on the Organizations Win Championships podcast.

The Bulls guard played his last game more than a year ago when scored 15 points in a 42-point loss against theGolden State Warriors.

Throughout the year, Ball underwent two surgeries but the pain and discomfort continued.

Ball averaged 13 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.1 assists in 35 games during the 2021-22 season. Throughout his career, his numbers are similar - 11.9 points, 5.7 rebounds, 6.2 assists.

After signing a four-year $80 million contract with theNew Orleans Pelicansin 2021, Lonzo went to the Bulls in a sign-and-trade deal. He is set to earn just over $20 million next season.

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