In triple-doubles, Lonzo Ball took revenge on his ex | NBA

Author of 17 points (6/11 on shots), 10 rebounds, 10 assists and 3 steals, without losing a single ball, Lonzo Ball was one of the strong men of the Bulls last night, in their large victory against the Pelicans . The second in two games, after the one snatched at the opening, on the floor of the Pistons.

Like Zach LaVine (32 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists) and DeMar DeRozan (26 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists), Lonzo Ball never had to force his game against the New Orleans franchise. , orphan of Zion Williamson. A team that the soon to be 24-year-old leader knows quite well, having spent the last two seasons there, before being sent to Chicago this summer, as part of a « sign-and-trade ».

However, when asked about any spirit of revenge, Lonzo Ball preferred to kick in touch.

 » It’s the first game of the season at home, so everyone is going to come in with more energy. [que d’habitude] « , He told NBC Sports, before the game.  » For me, it’s just about playing, helping my team as best as possible to win, because I want the victory. That’s all that matters, no matter who my opponent is. « 

Conductor of these Bulls who make the show

In fact, for his official premiere at the United Center, the ubiquitous Lonzo Ball seemed more motivated than usual. Evidenced by this sequence in the last quarter, where he made a basket with 3-points, against and basket at mid-distance, on three possessions in a row! Front row seat, Zach LaVine enjoyed the show.

 » He had a little extra energy. He was really everywhere “, Estimated the back All-Star, still seduced by his friend of the“ back-court ”.  » He influences the game in so many ways … « 

Cataloged as a spectacular player since his debut in the league, Lonzo Ball had yet seen this facet of his game disappear somewhat among the Pelicans. Much less constrained by the Bulls, where he can find this role of true leader that he loves, the 2nd choice of the 2017 Draft no longer seeks to rehash the past.

 » I only control what I can control », Explained the former resident of UCLA, questioned on the reason for his departure from New Orleans.  » Currently, I am where I wanted to be and I am happy. « 

This joy is also visible on the field, since Lonzo Ball seems more fulfilled and confident than ever in Illinois, where he finds in particular Alex Caruso, his former teammate of the Lakers. Together, the two leaders, who know each other inside out, put on a show, especially when they are running on the counterattack. One aspect of the game in which Billy Donovan’s men have impressed so far.

 » We know we are much faster than most of the other teams », Delivered Lonzo Ball in the Chicago Tribune.  » So as soon as we can run and go on a counter attack, we have to make sure that we are as efficient as possible. «