Bulls' Lonzo Ball opens up about injury that's sidelined him for two years

Lonzo Ball has missed the last two seasons due to a meniscus injury.

The 26-year-old has one year left on his four-year, $85 million deal that he signed with the Bulls in 2021. He opted into his $21.4 million player option for 2024-25.

Ball announced he's finally ready to play again while appearing on the "What An Experience" podcast.

"To make a long story short, ultimately, it started with a meniscus tear, basically started on the Lakers when I tore it the first time," Ball explained. "[I] tore it a couple more times to a point to where there was no more meniscus left. Bone on bone was rubbing. So, the cartilage was gone, and the bone was messed up. So, I had to get a new meniscus from a donor. I had to get a bone allograft, and I had to get some new cartilage put in as well. All that healed up, and now I’m back on the court."

Ball's return will be welcome news for Chicago. The team acquired Ball in 2021 to construct a championship-caliber roster. Since joining the franchise from the New Orleans Pelicans, though, Ball has only played 35 games.

After missing two years, there's no telling what level Ball is at or whether he can return to the player we saw before his injury. If he can show a high level of perimeter defense and prove that he's still a high-IQ playmaker, he could help unlock the Bulls' offense next season.

Chicago's dream of contending with Ball, DeMar DeRozan and Nikola Vucevic is likely over. However, Ball is young enough to continue being a high-level piece in a championship puzzle if he can prove that his injury issues are behind him.

This season will significantly affect his NBA future and earning potential. As such, many eyes will be on how things unfold for the Bulls.