"Chicago guards be cursed"- Fans express concern over Lonzo Ball's third knee surgery

The Chicago Bulls announced on Thursday (March 16) that Lonzo Ball will undergo a cartilage transplant procedure in his left knee. Ball has not played since Jan. 14, 2022 when he suffered a torn meniscus and was ruled out for the remainder of last season.

Ball continued to experience pain in his left knee during his recovery and had to undergo a second surgery last September. He was ruled out for the rest of the ongoing season. Shams Charania of The Athletic has reported that the Bulls are expecting him to miss almost the entirety of the 2023-24 season too.

There's also growing fear among NBA circles that Ball's injury could lead to his early retirement. His injury has been compared by some to what Brandon Roy suffered. Roy was forced to retire after just six seasons due to degenerative conditions in both knees.

Lonzo Ball released a statement following the Chicago Bulls' announcement of his third knee surgery. Ball was frustrated with his situation but remains optimistic that he will be able to resume his career and return to action as soon as possible.

"My main focus has been on returning to the court and getting to a place where I can rejoin my teammates," Ball said. "This has been a frustrating process, but I'm confident these next steps are the best path forward. The support of my family, friends, fans and medical staff throughout my recovery is what keeps me moving forward. I can't wait to get back to what I love doing most – playing basketball."

Fans across social media reacted to the terrible news of Ball's third knee procedure in 14 months. Some fans even pointed out how unfortunate the Bulls have been in terms of injuries and point guards. Derrick Rose had a promising start to his career before injuries derailed it.

Here are some of the comments and reactions across Reddit and Twitter:

Bulls haven't had success since Michael Jordan.

Lonzo Ball could miss at least 3 years of action due to his injury.

Derrick Rose and Lonzo Ball both had knee problems while playing for the Chicago Bulls.

Derrick Rose also underwent multiple knee surgeries during his NBA career.

The 25-year-old guard signed a four-year, $85 million contract extension with the Chicago Bulls in 2021.

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Lonzo Ball and the Bulls guards 'curse'

Lonzo Ball of the Chicago Bulls

The Chicago Bulls have had a trio of star point guards since Michael Jordan played for them in 1998. They are Jay Williams, Derrick Rose and Lonzo Ball, all of whom dealt with injuries that derailed their career.

Williams had a promising rookie season in 2003, but a freak motorcycle incident abruptly ended his career. Rose was the youngest MVP in NBA history, but injuries to his knees and ankles robbed him of his career.

As for Ball, he still has the chance to recover and resume his career. However, a third surgery on the same knee and three years away from the game could be physically and mentally taxing.