Lonzo Ball could miss NBA season start with more surgery woes

Chicago, Illinois - Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball will be sidelined for the next four-to-six weeks after having arthroscopic surgery on his left knee next week, the team announced on Wednesday.

The Chicago Bulls announced Lonzo Ball will still be sidelined for the next four-to-six weeks after surgery on his knee.
The Chicago Bulls announced Lonzo Ball will still be sidelined for the next four-to-six weeks after surgery on his knee.  © Collage: STACY REVERE / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / GETTY IMAGES VIA AFP

The 24-year-old last played in January before he tore his meniscus, and had an initial surgery. At the time, he was given a six-to-eight week recovery time. But the pain persisted and kept him out of the final months of the season.

The former second overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft was in the midst of a career-best shooting season with the Bulls, with his 42.3 % shooting from beyond the arc on 7.4 attempts per game marking the first time he has ever posted a three-point percentage above 37.8.

He was also averaging 13 points, 5.4 rebounds, 5.1 assists and was one of the best defensive guards in the league, tallying 1.8 steals per game.

NBA's Joel Embiid to undergo left knee procedure
NBA NBA's Joel Embiid to undergo left knee procedure

The Bulls are scheduled to kick off their season on October 19 against the Miami Heat, so his current injury timeline makes it incredibly unlikely that he will be ready for the start of the season, with November a more realistic target.

Ball is entering the second year of a four-year, $80 million contract, with the fourth year being a player option that Ball can decide to void if he feels he can secure a larger long-term deal.

Cover photo: Collage: STACY REVERE / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / GETTY IMAGES VIA AFP

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