That's it: after two and a half years of absence, and three knee operations including a cartilage graft, Lonzo Ball has finally turned back the NBA floors. It deserved a standing ovation from the United Center!
“It was much better to play than to watch” can appreciate the playmaker, who came into play halfway through the first quarter, at a press conference. “It’s difficult to put into words what I felt on the pitch. It's truly a moment that I will never forget. »
In the game, we found the Lonzo Ball we knew, intelligent in his choices on the field. He finished with 10 points at 4/6 shooting, including 2/4 from distance, in 15 minutes, in the Bulls' victory (125-123) against the Wolves.
However, the whole room held its breath when he threw himself to recover a ball that was coming out…
“I no longer have the same body as when I started my career. But I still think I can be productive and effective on the field”
“That’s the positive. I didn't feel anything at all (in the knee)” he explains like this. “I felt like I was moving well. Now it’s about building on that, and continuing to do it night after night.”
Subject to a playing time limit, Lonzo Ball will still be particularly monitored by the Bulls, especially since the pain was not completely absent during the preseason. But Billy Donovan and his teammates were already happy to find him on the field after so many ordeals and days away from the game.
“I thought he was superb” explains the coach. “He does so many things in the game that he doesn't even need his knee or his body to do. He uses his head so much. He moved very, very well. »
With a smile, LaMelo's brother hoped that his “long, very long” rehabilitation is now “totally” behind him. Even if he admits that he is no longer the player he was before his operations.
“I no longer have the same body as when I started my career. But I still think I can be productive and effective on the field. That’s why I always try to play.” And that the Bulls have been waiting for it for so long.
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How to read the stats? Min = Minutes; Shots = Successful shots / Attempted shots; 3pts = 3-points / 3-points attempted; LF = free throws made / free throws attempted; O = offensive rebound; D=defensive rebound; T = Total rebounds; Pd = assists; Fte: Personal fouls; Int = Intercepts; Bp = Lost balls; Ct: Against; +/- = Point differential when the player is on the field; Pts = Points; Eval: player evaluation calculated from positive actions – negative actions.
