TITLE: Cavaliers Keep Shopping Lonzo Ball’s Contract Ahead of Thursday’s Trade Deadline
SLUG: cavaliers-keep-shopping-lonzo-ball-contract-ahead-of-deadline
CONTENT:
The Cleveland Cavaliers are still actively including guard Lonzo Ball in trade discussions as the NBA’s trade deadline approaches on Thursday, according to sources cited by Hoops Wire and ClutchPoints reporter Brett Siegel.
Ball’s deal carries a $10 million team option for next season, effectively making it the equivalent of an expiring contract and a useful salary-matching piece for potential partners.
In his first year with Cleveland, the 26-year-old has struggled to find a rhythm. Through 34 games he is averaging a career-low 4.6 points along with 4.0 rebounds and 3.9 assists, leading front-office executives to view him primarily as a “throw-in” for larger transactions, sources said.
The Cavaliers acquired Ball from the Chicago Bulls last summer in a straight-up swap for Isaac Okoro. Early returns have tilted in Chicago’s favor, while Cleveland continues to explore ways to reshape its roster.
General manager Koby Altman’s front office remains busy on multiple fronts. Earlier this week, the club agreed to send DeAndre Hunter to the Sacramento Kings in exchange for Dennis Schroder and Keon Ellis, keeping trade lines open as Thursday’s deadline nears.
With the clock ticking, Ball’s manageable contract and expiring-type status are expected to stay in play as the Cavaliers evaluate offers.
Source: Hoops Wire
