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[Saba Sports News] The Chicago Bulls’ preseason game against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday was anything but typical, marking Lonzo Ball’s long-awaited return after 33 months on the sidelines due to knee surgeries.
Playing 15 minutes, Ball scored 10 points on an efficient 4-for-6 shooting, showing he’s still got game despite the layoff.
Ball reflected on the return, saying, “It felt a lot better playing than watching,” per K.C. Johnson of Chicago Sports Network. After enduring three knee surgeries over 1,006 days, the 26-year-old is finally seeing his hard work pay off.
The Bulls plan to manage his minutes cautiously to avoid setbacks, as he’s expected to start with 10-15 minutes per game, potentially increasing if his health allows.
Since joining the Bulls in 2021, Ball has faced a tough road, but his return brings a glimmer of hope.
With teammates like Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic still around, Ball’s ability to contribute with his shooting, defense, and playmaking could be pivotal for a Bulls team that has shifted focus toward rebuilding. This season may be a make-or-break one for Ball, as his contract expires at the end of the year.