Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball is reportedly targeting Wednesday's road game against the Orlando Magic for his return from a right wrist injury. This information comes from ESPN's Shams Charania and Ramona Shelburne. Ball has been sidelined since suffering the injury during a game against the Memphis Grizzlies on October 28.
Prior to the wrist sprain, Ball had made his return to the court after missing two and a half NBA seasons due to knee injuries. In three games this season, he averaged 4.7 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 3.7 assists while playing less than 16 minutes per game. Bulls head coach Billy Donovan provided an update, indicating that Saturday's practice marked Ball's best day since the injury occurred, according to K.C. Johnson of Chicago Sports Network. Additionally, Donovan confirmed that Ball would accompany the team during its two-game road trip, which includes a matchup against the Washington Wizards on Tuesday before facing the Magic.
Ball's injury was sustained after he attempted a steal and fell, catching himself on the court. He continued to play through the pain, taping his wrist during the game. An MRI the following day confirmed the sprain, and Ball later expressed concerns about the potential for surgery if he aggravated the injury. The talented guard has previously undergone multiple procedures on his left knee since January 2022, including cartilage transplant surgery in March 2023. His potential return to the lineup could significantly impact a Bulls team struggling to find consistency, as they have not won consecutive games since October 30 and head into their matchup with the Wizards having lost four of their last six contests. The Bulls will hope that Ball's return can help reinvigorate the team as they navigate a challenging Eastern Conference. As of now, it appears Ball will still be unavailable for the game against the Wizards in the NBA Cup, which is set to begin at 7 p.m. ET.
