5 potential NBA teams for Lonzo Ball after Bulls reportedly explore trade options as Chicago considers roster overhaul
Lonzo Ball is reportedly on the verge of being traded by the Chicago Bulls. This is according to NBA insider Jake Fischer on "The Stein Line", who reported that the Bulls are open to overhauling their roster, moving on from him, Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic.
The former No. 2 overall pick in the 2017 NBA draft has failed to hit the expectations set for him as he has struggled with injuries and is set to become a free agent next season. The Bulls this season have struggled for form and consistency as they find themselves 10th in the Eastern Conference standings.
Here's a closer look at five potential landing spots for Lonzo Ball.
Top 5 landing spots for Lonzo Ball
#5. Toronto Raptors
The Toronto Raptors have struggled all season with a 5-14 record so far. They have failed to win back-to-back games more than once this season and it's only fair that they are looking to bring some quality and experience to the fold.
Ball's addition to the team could bring a spark in their defensive play and playmaking, which appears to be their most pressing need. And added to the fact that his style of play aligns perfectly well with their coach, Darko Rajakovic's preference.
This season, star players like Scottie Barnes and RJ Barnes have started well, but don't have the support from teammates to see games through. A fit Lonzo Ball may be the spark they need to salvage their season.
#4. Phoenix Suns
The Phoenix Suns started the season well and proved their championship credentials. But everything fell apart as soon as future Hall of Famer Kevin Durant got sidelined through an injury.
Devin Booker tried his best in the scoring but lacked the required skills as a playmaker. And that's where Ball comes in with his versatility in pushing the pace and facilitating the offense leaving Booker to focus on scoring.
Lonzo Ball could be an ideal fit to push the pace and improve the Suns' offense, which ranked 10th last season with 116.2 points per game. And with Durant returning soon, the Suns could have an offensive threat to call from the bench.
#3. Philadelphia 76ers
This was not the start the Philadelphia 76ers were hoping for this season. Watching them hoop looks like they need fresh ideas to get their season back on track. Injuries to star duo Joel Embiid and Paul George haven't helped matters either.
Sixers fans may not be too excited about this pick due to their history with injured players. But what he brings to any team, is an opportunity they need at this point.
Moreover, integrating Lonzo Ball into a lineup that features Embiid, Paul George and Tyrese Maxey could provide a significant boost to their overall play. His playmaking would allow "PG13" and Maxey to focus more on scoring, while his defensive capabilities would support Embiid in protecting the paint.
#2. Milwaukee Bucks
The Milwaukee Bucks haven’t been their usual self since winning their first and only league title. Bringing in Lonzo Ball could benefit them as well to complement point guard Damian Lillard, who was expected to deliver another title to the city.
Giannis Antetokounmpo is the focal point of the Bucks and in recent times has had to do more than score. The loss of Jrue Holiday to the Boston Celtics made the Bucks open defensively and the addition of Ball might help plug the leakages.
Although the Bucks have recovered from their early season woes. The former Lakers player playing alongside established stars like Giannis and Dame could help him thrive in a role that emphasizes his strengths as a playmaker and defender.
#1. Denver Nuggets
Last season, the Denver Nuggets were nearly swept by the Minnesota Timberwolves and this season, they’ve just shown flashes of brilliance. Apart from reigning MVP Nikola Jokic, no other player on the team has performed as effectively and consistently as he has.
Thus, Ball's addition could be the push the supporting cast of Jamal Murray and Russell Westbrook needs. Also, his defensive expertise and playmaking ability would significantly enhance the team's backcourt depth, and provide a perfect complement to "The Joker".
Furthermore, he could also allow Jamal Murray to play off the ball more, which would leverage his scoring prowess. All this is if he stays fit and ends up proving his enormous potential.
Where do you think Lonzo Ball should go next? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.