Fans of the Chicago Bulls got some heartbreaking news on Wednesday.
The team announced that their star point guard, Lonzo Ball, will be shut down for the rest of the season as he continues to rehabilitate after meniscus surgery earlier in the year.
Sources: Bulls guard Lonzo Ball is expected to be shut down for the remainder of the season. Ball has been rehabbing from meniscus surgery in late January, but continues to feel discomfort amid several recovery methods to return to action and a bone bruise in his knee.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) April 5, 2022
There was a lot of hope that Ball would return after missing a few months, just in time for the playoffs.
However, he is still feeling discomfort and pain and isn’t able to do physical activity so he’s out for the rest of the season.
The Bulls are sixth in the East and have secured a spot in the playoffs but there is no doubt that their road ahead is rougher without Ball.
There were some strong reactions to the news online, especially among fans of the Bulls.
“Massive Blow”
Ball has really proven himself as one of the most important parts of this Bulls’ lineup.
Some people scoffed at the concept of Ball joining Chicago but he’s really been a great benefit to the team and has upped his game in some major ways.
Certain fans pointed out how the view of Ball has changed since coming over to the Bulls from the Pelicans.
Last year, pelicans fans placed some blame on this man for the outcome of their season. This year, Bulls Fans are begging for his return, to save the season.
Lonzo Ball pic.twitter.com/Mv8Htg2Luv
— Ball Facts (@ballfacts_) April 5, 2022
Sure enough, Ball was once a scapegoat in New Orleans but is now a savior in Chicago.
Meanwhile, other people rooting on the Windy City commented on just how huge a loss this is for the team.
There are many fans who value Ball right alongside DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine.
Lonzo Ball is up there with DeRozan and LaVine in terms of most valuable #Bulls. He's irreplaceable. Not having him in the playoffs is a MASSIVE blow. I'm so sad right now. https://t.co/l5WpxIQWWg
— Flo Ottis (@flo_ottis) April 6, 2022
Others highlighted the fact that this isn’t the first time Ball has been sidelined due to injury.
Indeed, he has experienced physical ailments in 2018, 2019, 2021, and now 2022 too.
Lonzo Ball History of Leg Injuries
2018 – Meniscus
2019 – Ankle Sprain
2021 – Knee/Ankle Sprains
2022 – MeniscusAKME need to go all in here & get Lonzo the best help he needs to try to reverse this trend of injuries which have derailed his career. Can't compete without Lonzo.
— Chicago Bulls Talk (@BullsSource) April 6, 2022
As many Chicago fans pointed out, something needs to be done to keep him healthy because if the Bulls are hoping to thrive in the seasons ahead, they will need Ball.
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