Billy Donovan on Lonzo Ball: He’s nowhere near playing

Lonzo Ball is “nowhere close” to returning, per Bulls coach Billy Donovan.

“He’s made some progress, but I’d be the first one to tell you he’s nowhere near playing,” Donovan said. “He’s just not. Because he’s not running on a consistent basis. When he can get to that place where he can do that consistently and be able to come back the next day and do it again, do it again and do it again — I think you’ll feel a little bit more optimistic.”

Today’s bleak Lonzo Ball update: Billy Donovan said before tonight’s game that Lonzo is still “nowhere close” to returning.

Still no formal conversation about a cut-off date, but Billy said the Bulls will have one after the All-Star break if nothing improves by then.

— Julia Poe (@byjuliapoe) January 28, 2023