As the new NBA season approaches, several players are gearing up for potentially career-defining comebacks. Lonzo Ball, who hasn’t played since January 2022 due to a series of knee surgeries, is aiming to make his long-awaited return to the Chicago Bulls. Meanwhile, Ben Simmons is looking to bounce back with the Brooklyn Nets after an injury-plagued season that saw him play only 15 games. These comeback stories are among the most anticipated as we head into the 2024-25 NBA season.
1. Lonzo Ball
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Lonzo Ball’s return to the NBA is one of the most anticipated storylines of the 2024-25 season. After missing over two years due to severe knee injuries, Ball exercised his $21.4 million player option for the upcoming season, signaling his intent to make a comeback with the Chicago Bulls. This decision is crucial, as it represents not only a personal milestone for Ball but also a significant opportunity for him to prove that he can still contribute at a high level in the league.
The Bulls’ roster has undergone a dramatic transformation during Ball’s absence. DeMar DeRozan was traded to the Sacramento Kings, and Alex Caruso was sent to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Meanwhile, the team acquired Josh Giddey, who is expected to take over primary ball-handling duties. This shift places Ball in a new context, where his role will be crucial in complementing Giddey and possibly helping to elevate the play of Zach LaVine, who remains on the trade block alongside Nikola Vucevic.
Ball’s return could significantly impact the Bulls’ strategy moving forward. If he can regain his form, he might become a central figure in Chicago’s backcourt, especially if the team successfully moves LaVine and Vucevic. Ball’s ability to distribute the ball and play elite defense could make him a valuable asset for the Bulls, both in the short term and as a potential trade piece before the deadline. Moreover, a successful comeback could lead to Ball securing a decent contract in free agency next summer, reestablishing his value in the league after such a prolonged absence.
The stakes are high for both Ball and the Bulls. For Ball, this season is about proving that he can still play at an elite level after multiple surgeries and a long recovery. For the Bulls, his return offers a glimmer of hope in what has been a challenging rebuild. If Ball can stay healthy and contribute, it could not only revive his career but also play a pivotal role in the Bulls’ future plans.
2. Ja Morant
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Ja Morant’s 2023-24 season was nothing short of a rollercoaster. After his 25-game suspension, Morant returned to the Grizzlies, determined to make an impact. He started strong, averaging 25.1 points, 8.1 assists, and 5.6 rebounds over 9 games, showing glimpses of his All-Star form. But just as things seemed to be looking up, he suffered a serious right shoulder injury in January. This injury required surgery, and it was a massive blow, not just to Morant, but to the Grizzlies as a whole.
The Grizzlies, who were already struggling with consistency, couldn’t recover from losing their star player. They ended the season with a 27-55 record, falling well short of the playoffs. This was a stark reminder of how crucial Morant is to their success. Fast forward to August, and Morant is on the comeback trail. He’s been cleared for all basketball activities and is working his way back to full strength.
Morant’s return isn’t just about putting up numbers again; it’s about redemption and growth. He’s had to navigate not just physical recovery but also the mental and emotional toll of the past year’s controversies and setbacks. This season, more than ever, is about proving that he can lead the Grizzlies not just to wins, but to a culture of accountability and resilience.
As the 2024-25 season looms, all eyes will be on Morant. Can he stay healthy? Can he lead the Grizzlies back to the playoffs in a tough Western Conference? These questions will define the season, and Morant’s legacy could hinge on the answers. But one thing’s for sure—if anyone can bounce back from a year like the one he’s had, it’s Ja Morant.
3. LaMelo Ball
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LaMelo Ball’s 2023-24 season was another chapter of brilliance overshadowed by misfortune. Playing in just 22 games before an ankle injury ended his season prematurely, Ball showcased his talent by averaging 23.9 points, 8.0 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game. His dynamic play was a bright spot in an otherwise bleak season for the Charlotte Hornets, who struggled mightily without their star, finishing with a 21-61 record.
Ball is now cleared to resume full basketball activities and is preparing for the upcoming season. The Hornets are banking on his return to lead a turnaround after such a difficult year. However, there are legitimate concerns about his ability to stay healthy over the long haul. Given his history with injuries, the 2024-25 season is a pivotal moment for Ball to prove that he can maintain his performance throughout an entire season and guide the Hornets back to respectability.
This season will be crucial for LaMelo, as he not only aims to stay healthy but also to fulfill his potential as the cornerstone of the Hornets’ franchise. His performance will be closely watched, as both fans and the organization hope that he can finally enjoy an injury-free season and lead Charlotte to a much-needed resurgence in the league.
4. Klay Thompson
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Klay Thompson’s 2024-25 season marks a significant transition in his storied NBA career. After spending 13 years with the Golden State Warriors, Thompson made a high-profile move to the Dallas Mavericks in a sign-and-trade deal, signing a three-year, $50 million contract. This move comes after a 2023-24 season where Thompson averaged 17.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.3 assists over 77 games. While these numbers were solid, they marked a slight decline from his peak years, reflecting his adjustment to changes within the Warriors’ roster and system.
Thompson’s decision to join the Mavericks is driven by a desire to continue competing at a high level and to bring his championship experience to a team that came close to winning it all last season. The Mavericks reached the NBA Finals in 2024, ultimately falling short against the Boston Celtics. Thompson is expected to be a key piece in helping Dallas get back to the Finals and secure a championship.
In Dallas, Thompson will not only be relied upon for his elite shooting and spacing but also for his veteran leadership alongside Luka Doncic. The Mavericks are banking on his experience to help them overcome the final hurdles in their quest for a title.
This season is crucial for Thompson as he seeks to prove that he can still be a major contributor to a championship contender in a new environment. The pressure is on for both him and the Mavericks to make this partnership successful and achieve the ultimate goal of winning an NBA.
5. Ben Simmons
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Ben Simmons is entering a critical juncture in his career as the 2024-25 season begins. After several years of injuries, inconsistent play, and mental health challenges, Simmons is facing what could be a make-or-break season. The 2024-25 campaign marks the final year of his five-year, $177 million contract, which he initially signed with the Philadelphia 76ers before being traded to the Brooklyn Nets. This means that Simmons is essentially playing for his future in the NBA, as his performance this season will likely determine whether he secures another significant contract or potentially sees his career take a sharp decline.
The 2023-24 season was particularly difficult for Simmons. He was limited to just 15 games due to a nerve impingement in his back, an injury that required a microscopic partial discectomy in March 2024. When he did play, Simmons struggled, averaging just 6.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game—far below his career averages. His inability to stay on the court and contribute consistently has raised serious concerns about his long-term viability in the league.
With only one year left on his contract, the stakes couldn’t be higher for Simmons. If he can stay healthy and regain some of the form that made him a two-time All-Star and a Defensive Player of the Year candidate, there’s still hope that he could revive his career and secure a new contract, whether with the Nets or another team. However, if his struggles continue—whether due to lingering injuries or confidence issues—Simmons could find himself out of the league sooner than anyone would have expected just a few years ago.
The Brooklyn Nets, who are in the midst of a rebuild, are cautiously optimistic about Simmons’ recovery and potential contribution. General Manager Sean Marks has indicated that Simmons is on track to be ready for the start of the season, but there’s no doubt that the pressure is on. This season could define Simmons’ legacy, either as a player who overcame significant adversity to reclaim his place among the NBA’s elite or as a cautionary tale of unfulfilled potential.
