By admin 
Lonzo Ball’s continued recovery from a knee injury was not the only reason he missed the team’s preseason opening, according to Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan. Instead, a severe case of COVID-19 recently sidelined the 26-year-old guard, who has been recovering from repeated knee operations.
The Bulls defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 116–112 on Tuesday night to start their preseason, but Ball—who hasn’t played in an NBA game since January 14, 2022—was once again sidelined. Ball has had three surgeries on his left knee during his recuperation period, including an experimental cartilage transplant—a surgery from which no professional athlete has ever fully recovered.
His knee is still a worry, but COVID-19 prevented him from playing in the preseason opener. Prior to training camp, Ball contracted the ailment, which prevented him from working out for more than a week. Donovan claims that the guard lost strength and weight as a result of the infection.
“I believe that he is still in the process of regained strength based on my conversations with him and my conversations with medical professionals,” Donovan stated. “Probably missed more than a week of exercise due to COVID.” Some strength was lost along with some weight. We shall exercise caution in the build-up.
Amid his COVID-19 recuperation, Billy Donovan sets reasonable expectations for Lonzo Ball’s workload. Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball (2) watches during the team’s media day.
Ball, who hasn’t yet participated in a season with more than 65 games, is realistic about his current physical state, Donovan also admitted. When Ball was a member of the New Orleans Pelicans in 2019–20, he played the most games in a season—63.
Donovan remarked, “I think he’s very realistic about where he is physically.” We need to figure out a method to help him continue playing so that he can demonstrate that he is an effective player in these kinds of minutes. I believe he also realizes that, in the short term, this won’t be like it was for him in New Orleans or even during his first year in Chicago.”
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Lonzo Ball’s injury history and recent COVID diagnosis suggest that his workload this season may need to be carefully regulated, according to Billy Donovan.
Throughout the season, he will need to demonstrate his abilities, however it’s possible that he won’t appear in all 82 games. Perhaps he plays 65,” Donovan continued.
The Chicago Bulls are still optimistic that Ball will be able to play again and make a significant impact this season. Ball’s recuperation from knee surgery and the aftereffects of his recent sickness will be carefully considered as the club gets ready for the 2024–25 campaign.