Lonzo Ball's absence could extend into the All-Star break.
While speaking with reporters Wednesday for the first time since Jan. 15, the Lakers rookie said a timeline for his return remains uncertain and he could miss All-Star weekend's Rising Stars game scheduled for Feb. 16.
"I didn't think it was going to be this serious, to be honest. ... There was never a timeline for it. It was kind of just a thing that came up. I thought it was going to be dealt with quicker, but obviously my body didn't react to it that well. I should be back hopefully soon," Ball said Wednesday, via the Los Angeles Times.
Ball had not tested the injury laterally until Wednesday, but went through another individual workout session with Lakers assistant Miles Simon in which he was still unable to jump or run full speed.
"One-dribble, two-dribble pullups," Ball said. "Maybe some slides for defense. Just see what I can do. Test it as far as I can and see where the pain comes.
"It's pretty tough," he added. "This is the most games I've ever missed in my whole life, but it's always good to see my teammates win (Tuesday against the Suns). Especially in front of our home crowd which was definitely good last night. Just doing what I can to be a good teammate and support them."
Ball, 20, has missed 11 games with the injury and already has been ruled out for Thursday's game against the Thunder. He is averaging 10.2 points, 7.1 assists and 7.1 rebounds in 36 games.
