Lonzo Ball’s name is once again being linked with the Los Angeles Lakers. According to Jovan Buha of The Athletic, the California franchise is seriously considering a possible reunion with the point guard currently with the Chicago Bulls, although it will all depend on the price.
I think they would be interested. But it’s a matter of at what price. You have to consider his health and his history… you can’t even write him down for 60 games. So whatever you give up for him, it has to come at some discount, because you might only have him for 40 or 50 games
Ball, who was drafted by the Lakers in 2017, has dealt with multiple injuries in recent years and has not played an official game since January 2022 due to chronic knee problems. Although he has shown progress and hopes to be ready for the start of the next campaign, he remains a question mark in terms of availability.
Despite this, his vision of the game, perimeter defense and ability to generate offensive rhythm make him an interesting piece to accompany figures such as LeBron James and Luka Doncic, if his arrival at the franchise is completed.
Other names on the table
Ball is not the only player linked to the Lakers this offseason. In recent weeks there have also been rumors about possible interest in Giannis Antetokounmpo, although there are no official negotiations at the moment. Even Shaquille O’Neal weighed in with a public warning to the Greek:
“If you go to L.A., half your contract is gone in taxes. There’s more pressure, more stress… now the market is on social media. This is not the 90s,” Shaq said on his podcast, referring to the fact that it is no longer necessary to be in a big market to be relevant.
The Lakers want to strengthen their roster with players who can make a difference at key moments. The return of Lonzo Ball is a real possibility, but his fitness and the price to be paid will be decisive. It will all depend on whether Chicago is willing to negotiate under reasonable conditions.
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