The Los Angeles Lakers would be interested in a reunion with Lonzo Ball, but concerns about his health and availability could limit how much they might be willing to give up.
Even though the Los Angeles Lakers are expected to add a center this offseason, finding a secondary playmaker to pair with—or even back up—Luka Doncic could also be an option.
Lonzo Ball
Lonzo Ball
Lonzo Ball
MIN: 22.2
PTS: 7.63 (41.11%)
REB: 3.37
As: 3.29
ST: 1.34
BL: 0.49
TO: 1.17
GM: 35
One name floating on the market is Lonzo Ball, the Chicago Bulls point guard and former Laker, who was the No. 2 overall pick by L.A. in the 2017 NBA Draft and played there from 2017 to 2019.
During a recent Q&A session, Jovan Buha of The Athletic was asked whether the Lakers might be interested in a Lonzo Ball reunion. The team's beat writer responded positively.
"I do, I think they would be," Buha said. "It's just a matter of what his price is, and you have to factor in the health and the history there. You can't even pencil him in for 60 games.
"So, whatever you're giving up for him, there has to be some level of a discount, or you're factoring in, like, this dude might just play 40, 50 games," Buha added. "He's a guy you have to load manage. Like, how can we load manage him to get to mid-April in one piece?"
Credit AP – Scanpix
Ball is under contract for $10 million in 2025–26, with a $10 million team option for 2026–27.
Now 27, Ball has battled serious knee injuries in Chicago but has worked his way back to the court.
This past season, he averaged 7.6 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.3 assists while shooting 36.6% from the field. When healthy, he provides valuable two-way versatility and is on a team-friendly deal.
Marc Stein earlier reported that the Dallas Mavericks also remain interested in Ball, especially if they miss out on pricier trade targets.
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