Carlos Osorio/Associated Press

Lonzo Ball Trade Rumors: Bulls Interested, Haven't Talked Deal with Pelicans

Tyler Conway

The Chicago Bulls reportedly continue to have interest in a trade for Lonzo Ball but have yet to have meaningful dialogue with the New Orleans Pelicans.

Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium reported the Bulls are continuing to monitor Ball's situation ahead of the March 25 trade deadline.

Ball is a restricted free agent after the 2020-21 season.

Ball is averaging 13.7 points, 4.7 assists and 4.5 rebounds per game while continuing to be one of the game's most polarizing players.

Billed as a superstar in the making coming out of UCLA, Ball is decidedly not a franchise player. His lack of aggression near the basket has proved limiting to his scoring ability, and he is a mediocre shooter despite making strides in that department.

What Ball lacks in scoring, however, he makes up in nearly every other aspect of his game. He is one of basketball's most gifted passers, particularly in the open court, and is a plus rebounder and defender at his position.

The Bulls' attempts to make Coby White and Zach LaVine a workable backcourt have failed this season, with the team performing far better when LaVine is on the court alone. While these struggles could be ironed out, Chicago may prefer to see White as a sixth man moving forward, with a more traditional point guard like Ball handling the starting duties.

At the very least, Ball will be someone to watch ahead of March's trade deadline.

   

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