Lonzo Ball is reportedly set to secure a major bag.
According to a Monday (Aug. 2) report from The Athletic’s Shams Charania, the New Orleans Pelicans guard has agreed to sign a four-year, $85 million deal with the Chicago Bulls. The deal is getting done through a sign-and-trade arrangement.
“The Chicago Bulls are sending Tomas Satoransky, Garrett Temple and a second-round pick to New Orleans for Lonzo Ball, who’s signing a four-year, $85M contract, sources tell tell @TheAthletic @Stadium,” Shams wrote in a follow-up tweet about the trade, which is unfolding on the first day of NBA free agency.
Ball is a player who has proven to be a solid contributor in the league. Known for being a gifted passer and a plus defender, he’s a player that can help out on both ends of the floor. While he hasn’t always been consistent shooting from three-point range, he made them at a serviceable 35% on decent volume this past season on his way to averaging 14.6 points, 4.8 rebounds and 5.7 assists.
News of Ball’s purported new deal arrives amid continued speculation about the types of pieces the Philadelphia 76ers can get for Ben Simmons, a 6-foot-11 forward with elite court vision, incredible open court athleticism and defensive versatility. While his lack of a jumper and woes from the free throw line are cause for concern, he’s a three-time all-star with who’s made two All-NBA Defensive teams.
The Sixers’ asking price for Simmons is a reportedly a very steep one. According to an earlier report from The Athletic, the team wants control of four first-round draft picks and an all-star level player in return for the talented forward. The Golden State Warriors reportedly turned down a trade offer for Simmons a few days ago. See Shams’ tweets about the purported Lonzo deal for yourself below.