The first preseason game at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse ended with a one-point difference, the Chicago Bulls edging out the Cleveland Cavaliers 118-117 on Tuesday night.
The game came down to the final possession, with Cleveland unable to convert in the closing seconds. Despite the narrow loss, the Cavs showed early promise with fluid ball movement and balanced scoring across the lineup.
Preseason results don’t count in the standings, but they serve as valuable tune-ups for developing rhythm and testing rotations. For Cleveland, the contest offered an early look at how the team plans to blend returning talent with offseason additions ahead of the 2025–26 campaign.
Lonzo Ball Makes His Return
Despite a lack of scoring, Lonzo Ball’s return marked a victory of its own as it was his first time back on the court in more than a year, and a sign that his long recovery may finally be behind him. Coming from the Chicago Bulls, where he averaged 22.2 minutes and only 7.6 points per game, the No. 2 overall pick from the 2017 NBA Draft is determined to prove he can still make an impact.
Ball played 11 minutes in the preseason opener, missing all four of his field-goal attempts but contributing one assist. It was a first step in re-establishing his rhythm and confidence after multiple knee surgeries and a wrist injury that limited him to only 70 games over the past four seasons.
A City of Brothers
Cleveland is no stranger to comebacks, and Ball’s return echoes that spirit. The city is also home to other famous siblings, like Travis and Jason Kelce, while Ball himself is part of one of basketball’s most recognizable families. This “city of brothers” energy adds a layer of symbolism to his debut in Cleveland.
With over 18 million Instagram followers and an upcoming podcast with Jake Paul’s sports betting company “Betr,” Ball’s influence extends beyond the court. His younger brother LaMelo Ball will face him in Cleveland on Dec. 22 with the Charlotte Hornets.
Replacing Ty Jerome and Strengthening the Core Four
With Ty Jerome leaving via free agency, Ball is expected to step into a critical backup guard role. His ability to run the offense complements Cleveland’s “core four” of Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, Donovan Mitchell and Jarrett Allen.
While the Cavs are cautious with his minutes due to past injuries, the team sees Ball as a key contributor in stabilizing the point guard position and providing depth, particularly while Garland recovers from offseason surgery that has sidelined him until later this fall.
The Long Road Back From Injury to Health
Ball’s injuries have been extensive, including multiple left knee meniscus tears and cartilage procedures, as well as a wrist injury last season. These setbacks limited him and forced him to take a measured approach in returning to the court.
For Lonzo Ball, this season isn’t just about a single game, it’s about proving he can reclaim his place in the NBA. Last night’s appearance may have been a small step statistically, but it was a huge step toward his redemption story.
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