When the 2024-25 season began, everyone was excited to see Lonzo Ball return to the Chicago Bulls.
Months later, they are all expecting to see him leave.
On Tuesday, Evan Sidery reported that the Los Angeles Clippers, Miami Heat, Charlotte Hornets, Los Angeles Lakers, Orlando Magic, Detroit Pistons, and Minnesota Timberwolves have all held “exploratory” trade talks with the Bulls about Ball.
“Chicago would be open to moving Ball’s $21.3 million expiring contract in exchange for second-round draft capital,” Sidery reported.
And, just like that, Ball has become one of the most talked-about trade targets on the market.
The Clippers, Heat, Hornets, Lakers, Magic, Pistons, and Timberwolves have all held exploratory trade talks with the Bulls centered on Lonzo Ball.
Chicago would be open to moving Ball’s $21.3 million expiring contract in exchange for second-round draft capital. pic.twitter.com/tTuZrOHEYV
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) January 28, 2025
Ball has averaged 7.0 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.5 assists during his 26 games with the Bulls this season.
After two years away with rehabilitation from a nasty injury, Ball doesn’t quite look like the player he once was, but he still clearly holds value.
And with that asking price, these teams will all try to trade for Ball and get him away from the Bulls.
Ball has only started in five games this season, so would he remain part of the second unit when he moves to another team?
There was a time when he was a starter and one of the most exciting young point guards in the league.
Times have changed and injuries have slowed him down, but Ball could end up being one of the most impactful bench players if he is handled correctly.
All of the teams listed would love support for their backcourt, and they all have draft picks to send to the Bulls.
It sounds like there is a big market for Ball, so now it’s time to see where he heads next.
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