Bulls’ Lonzo Ball aiming to return before end of season

March 26, 2025

Bulls point guard Lonzo Ball, sidelined since Feb. 28 with a sprained right wrist, remains out but is aiming for a return before the end of the regular season.

Ball participated in a full 5-on-5 scrimmage during Wednesday’s practice and was “upbeat and optimistic” about his progress, according to K.C. Johnson of the Chicago Sports Network. He is expected to need at least another week to build up his conditioning, with next Friday’s game against Portland emerging as a potential return date, Julia Poe of The Chicago Tribune reports.

The 27-year-old returned to action last fall after missing more than two-and-a-half years due to knee issues. In 35 games this season, including 14 starts, Ball has averaged 7.6 points, 3.4 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.3 steals in 22.2 minutes per game. The Bulls have posted a +5.5 net rating with him on the floor, compared to -4.8 when he is off.

While his knee has held up, Ball’s wrist has been an ongoing concern. He missed 15 consecutive games earlier in the season with the same injury and has dealt with pain on his shooting follow-through throughout the year. He does not expect the discomfort to subside until he can undergo a longer recovery period in the offseason.

Ball, who began the season on an expiring contract, signed an extension with Chicago last month. His new deal includes a guaranteed $10 million salary for next season and a $10 million team option for 2026-27.