Lonzo Ball expected his below-market contract to make him a trade candidate, and that prediction proved accurate when the Chicago Bulls sent him to the Cleveland Cavaliers in July. Speaking before Thursday’s game at the United Center, the 27-year-old guard said he is focused on helping a contender.
“All I can control is where I’m at and who I’m playing for, and that’s the Cavs right now,” Ball said. “Go out there and give them my all.”
Ball accepted a two-year, $20 million extension in February that includes a club option for 2026/27. The deal’s modest salary helped Cleveland acquire him for forward Isaac Okoro. After appearing in 35 games last season following a two-and-a-half-year recovery from knee issues, the Cavaliers plan to manage Ball’s minutes and avoid using him on consecutive nights to keep him fresh for the postseason.
Chicago honored Ball with a tribute video during his return, a gesture he called “thankful,” noting the strong relationships he forged with teammates, coaches and fans.
Bulls Place Emphasis on Tre Jones
Re-signing point guard Tre Jones became a priority once the Bulls obtained him from San Antonio at the February trade deadline. Head coach Billy Donovan said Jones’ playmaking has already eased the loss of Ball.
“He finds guys on cuts, back cuts. He gets to the basket. He’s very calm, got a good IQ … he just makes plays,” Donovan stated.
Patrick Williams Trims Weight for Versatility
Forward Patrick Williams, entering his sixth season, shed pounds over the summer through high-cardio workouts that included running on Los Angeles sand dunes. Williams said the goal is to defend every position without overloading his joints.
“Not wanting to be too slim where I can’t guard different positions, but also being slim enough where my joints aren’t just aching after games,” he explained, adding that previous injuries influenced his approach.
Coby White’s Return Timeline
Guard Coby White remains out with the calf strain suffered in August. Donovan said the club hopes White can appear in the October 16 preseason finale and be available for the October 22 regular-season opener, but cautioned that the team will not rush him back because of its up-tempo style.
Source: Hoops Rumors
