NBA

Chicago Bulls star Lonzo Ball to have third knee surgery

Ifeanyi Ufomadu 13:14 - 18 March 2023

Chicago Bulls star Lonzo Ball to have third knee surgery

Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball will have a third surgery on his left knee and could miss the entire 2023-24 season.

Lonzo Ball has not played for the Chicago Bulls since Jan. 14, 2022, and before the decision to have a third surgery was made, he had already been ruled out of the 2022/23 NBA season.

Chicago Bulls' Lonzo Ball to have third knee surgery, could miss whole of next NBA season

ESPN reported last week that the Chicago Bulls and Ball's representatives were seeking specialist opinions before making a final decision regarding a potential surgery.

Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball will undergo a third surgery on his left knee that is expected to cost him most, if not all, of the 2023-24 season, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

The sides are optimistic of the procedure reviving Ball's career. 🙏🏽
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) March 16, 2023

Ball is reported to have made progress in recent months but is still unable to run or jump without pain.

He is in the second season of a four-year, $80 million contract with the Bulls.

At his best, Ball is an excellent defender who can shoot the three at a high level. He shot 42.3% from three-point range last season, averaging 13 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.1 assists.

The Bulls have struggled in Ball's absence, they have a losing record (31-37) and 11th in the Eastern Conference.