CLEVELAND, Ohio — Speed and athleticism have always been Lonzo Ball’s calling cards. But after multiple knee surgeries and a lengthy rehabilitation process, the newest Cavalier is showing that sometimes the most dangerous weapon on the court isn’t the fastest feet. It’s the quickest mind.
In the latest episode of the Wine and Gold Talk Podcast, cleveland.com Cavs beat reporter Chris Fedor broke down Ball’s preseason performance against the Detroit Pistons, highlighting how his basketball IQ is redefining his impact.
“For Lonzo, if he doesn’t have that premier athleticism anymore — and it doesn’t look like he does — and if he does look a little bit slower than some of these teams and some of these players that the Cavs are going to go against, then how do you still have success? For him, it’s with his mind. It’s with his basketball IQ,” Fedor explained on the podcast. “It’s being able to see things that the defense is trying to take away from him or take away from the team and counter those things.”
That cerebral approach was on full display in the Cavs’ preseason finale, where Ball’s passing stood out as exceptional even by NBA standards. His ability to thread needles and find teammates before they even realize they’re open showcases a rare talent that transcends physical limitations.
“Kenny Atkinson even referenced after the game saying that he is one of the few players that can make some of the passes that were made tonight,” noted podcast host Ethan Sands.
What makes Ball’s basketball intelligence particularly valuable is how it elevates those around him. The podcast revealed that Donovan Mitchell has already recognized this quality in his new teammate.
This ability to simplify the game for others could prove crucial for a Cavaliers team looking to make a deep playoff run. Ball’s vision helps create opportunities for Dean Wade, Evan Mobley, and others who benefit from his anticipatory playmaking.
While fans might be concerned about Ball’s reduced speed following his injuries, the podcast discussion highlighted how his approach has adapted. Rather than relying on blow-by quickness, Ball now uses his basketball IQ to stay several steps ahead of defenses mentally.
The Cavaliers’ acquisition of Ball might not have generated headlines like some of the offseason’s blockbuster moves, but as Fedor pointed out, it could prove to be one of the most impactful additions on the margins. His ability to see plays develop before anyone else and make passes few players would even attempt adds a dimension to Cleveland’s offense that was previously missing.
For Ball personally, this season represents more than just helping a new team — it’s a comeback story.
As mentioned by Sands in the podcast, his target is to play 60 games this season, a significant milestone after his long absence from NBA courts.
The evolution of Ball from athletic dynamo to basketball savant might be exactly what the Cavaliers need as they pursue championship contention. His basketball IQ gives Cleveland another weapon in their arsenal — one that operates above the shoulders rather than below the waist.
Want to hear more insights about Lonzo Ball’s impact and the Cavaliers’ preseason performance? Listen to the full episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast for Chris Fedor and Ethan Sands’ complete breakdown of how Ball’s basketball intelligence is reshaping Cleveland’s roster dynamics.
Here’s the podcast for this week:
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