While Ball hasn’t been ruled out yet for the Bulls’ impending clash against the Heat, Johnson reported that it’s “unlikely” for the guard to suit up. If Chicago defeats Miami, they will be facing the loser of the matchup between the Orlando Magic and Atlanta Hawks and would have to win that game too for Ball to reach this injury return goal of theirs.

Considering how well the Bulls have been playing as of late, no one can rule out the possibility that they emerge from the depths of the play-in tournament to at least get the chance to give the Cavs a scare in the first round of the playoffs. Having Ball around would improve their chances of doing so, but the 27-year-old guard’s health is the number one priority. Given how much adversity he’s gone through over the past few years, there is no chance that they risk his physical well-being.

Bulls look to carry on strong play into the postseason

In the aftermath of the Zach LaVine trade, the Bulls have rallied. They have gone 15-7 since the calendar flipped to March, and while that wasn’t enough to get their record above .500, they will be a scary team to face in a single-game elimination setting due to the possibility of explosive games from Josh Giddey and Coby White.

Lonzo Ball would have given the Bulls another solid floor-spacer and a stout defender, which should help them in an impending matchup against Tyler Herro and company. Nonetheless, Chicago swept the season series against Miami anyway and they will be favored in that contest, with or without Ball.