We were watching the meeting between the Cavaliers and the Bulls, with the hope of seeing again Lonzo Ball on a plot of land. Unfortunately, the Chicago leader was neither on the field nor on the bench. This time, it's not because of his knees, but because he tested positive for Covid. In fact, the former Pelicans and Lakers player has been dragging this on for 10 days, and he had already missed several practices.
“After talking with him and the medical staff, I think he needs a certain period of time to regain his strength” explained Billy Donovan. “He probably hasn't been able to train for more than a week, and we're going to be careful with the preparation. I expect him to play at some point in the preseason games, but I think it will depend on training, workload management and his physical condition. For now, the best decision to make is to continue trying to make him progress. »
No promise of playing time
It should be remembered that we have not seen Lonzo Ball on the field since January 2022. In three months, it will therefore be three years! But optimism remains among him, his teammates, but also his coach. “He’s aggressive, and he’s not afraid to make contact or that sort of thing.” testifies Coby White. “It’s great to see him back on the field after everything he’s been through. »
The Bulls' next game is scheduled for Saturday, against the Grizzlies, and Billy Donovan appreciates that his playmaker does not skip steps, and remains cautious. LaMelo's brother is only 26 years old.
“He is very realistic about his physical state”concludes the Chicago coach. “We have to find a way for him to extend his career by showing that he can be a productive player. I also think he understands that, minutes-wise, it's not going to be what he experienced in New Orleans or even what he experienced his first year in Chicago. He has to find a way to try to get a good place. He's going to have to show he can do it throughout the season, but maybe he won't play 82 games. Maybe he’ll play 65.”
