As the NBA trade deadline approaches on Feb. 6, rumors have emerged linking Chicago Bulls point guard Lonzo Ball to his former team, the Los Angeles Lakers.
The Athletic's Jovan Buha, in a conversation with Jason Timpf of Hoops Tonight, suggested that the Lakers could be interested in acquiring Ball.
Ball's Return from Injury
Ball, currently in the final year of a four-year, $80 million contract, has shown glimpses of his potential this season after a lengthy injury absence. He has averaged 6.4 points, 3.7 assists, and 1.6 steals in 20.4 minutes per game across 23 appearances, per Bleacher Report.
"I think Lonzo is someone that's going to be on their radar, and I think depending on the price if you could get him for second or two seconds, I think that's an interesting swing, and also someone with that 6'6" frame that could potentially I think to be similar to Bruce Brown, check a couple of boxes...he's bulked up a little bit throughout his career, so he can guard twos and even some smaller threes and potentially be part of a one-through-three switching scheme. And then offensively, I think, especially coming off the bench as a secondary ball-handler, playmaker, and also a spot-up shooter, I think he's someone who's an interesting gamble for them," Buha said.
However, the 2017 second-overall pick is still working his way back to full strength following multiple knee surgeries, including a meniscus transplant. This has resulted in limited playing time and a dip in his shooting percentages.
He is currently shooting 36.5% from the field and 33.0% from three-point range, a significant drop from his career averages of 39.9% and 36.2% from beyond the arc.
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Defensive Prowess and Trade Deadline Considerations
Despite his offensive struggles, Ball remains a valuable asset due to his exceptional defensive abilities. His tenacious on-ball defense would significantly upgrade the Lakers' backcourt.
For the Bulls, trading Ball could be a strategic move.
With a 19-25 record and currently occupying the 10th seed in the Eastern Conference, their playoff hopes are dwindling. Moving Ball before the deadline could allow them to acquire assets for the future or potentially pursue a different direction.
Lakers' Need for Backcourt Depth
Despite showing signs of improvement, the Lakers still require significant upgrades to contend for a championship. Their backcourt depth is a concern, and Clutch Point reports that Ball could provide a much-needed defensive presence and playmaking ability.
While the Lakers have remained relatively quiet on the trade front, the possibility of acquiring Ball remains intriguing. Only time will tell if the rumored trade will push through in the next two weeks.
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