Day 1 of training camp is in the books!
Fortunately, it sounds like everyone on the Chicago Bulls’ roster was able to participate in varying degrees, and this includes Lonzo Ball. According to CHGO’s Will Gottlieb, Ball did both contact and non-contact drills. The Chicago Tribune’s Julia Poe also shared footage of Ball working through some 3-point shooting drills post-practice.
Ball has been competing in five-on-five action since August, and the goal remains for him to be available on Oct. 23 against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Nevertheless, how Ball’s body responds to the training camp work over the next handful of days will be the true test. Then, we’ll have to see if Billy Donovan opts to use him during the team’s first preseason matchup on Oct. 8.
As for the Chicago Bulls’ Lonzo Ball replacement, he spent less time on the floor today. Billy Donovan shared with reporters that Josh Giddey went through only non-contact work. This comes one day after the 22-year-old announced that he has been sidelined for nearly two months with an ankle injury. While it sounds like he will be ready for opening night, how quickly the Bulls will have him as a full participant in practice remains unclear.
Lastly, Patrick Williams took questions after a quiet Media Day. The forward reportedly did both contact and non-contact work, per K.C. Johnson, and told reporters that his foot is feeling good. Considering all signs point toward Williams carrying the biggest workload of his career this season, let’s hope nothing changes for the 23-year-old.