There was a time when it looked like the Chicago Bulls could go all the way to the Finals this year.
They were one of the most exciting, unstoppable teams in the league and sat at the top of the East for a while.
However, things have changed for the Bulls.
They’re still doing well and fifth in the East with a 45-33 record.
But a rash of injuries has thrown a monkey wrench in their plans.
One injury in particular has been incredibly troubling.
No news on Lonzo Ball.
Billy Donovan says he expects to know more tomorrow or Wednesday, but we’re creeping closer to the point of the season where the Bulls might need to just shut him down.
— Julia Poe (@byjuliapoe) April 4, 2022
Lonzo Ball has been off the court because of a meniscus tear in January.
The team has repeatedly said they wanted him to get healthy and get back on the floor but there is still no news about Ball returning.
This leads some to wonder if it’s time for the Bulls to shut Ball down and officially end his season.
No Ball Bounce Back
When he was healthy, Ball was an integral part of the Bulls’ resurgence.
He helped the team claim a 23-12 record but since his injury, the Bulls are 18-20.
Ball was averaging 13 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.1 assists when he was playing.
He helped the team in terms of ball-handling, shooting, and speed.
Over the last few seasons, Ball has enhanced his game and enriched his skills and the Bulls were able to receive the benefits of those improvements.
Thankfully, the Bulls still have a fighting chance because of some other strong players on their team.
Most notably, they are relying on possible MVP DeMar DeRozan, who has been having a breakout season and has become the team’s leader.
But with such tough competition in the East, the Bulls are definitely missing Ball right now.
