The NBA trade rumor mill is heating up, and Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball is at the center of the storm. According to a recent report by Evan Sidery of Forbes, the Bulls are poised to make Ball available in trade talks this summer, sparking widespread interest across the league. After signing a two-year, $20 million extension in February 2025, Ball’s manageable $10 million annual salary, which includes a team option for the 2026-27 season, has contending teams buzzing with excitement. His expiring contract and skill set make him an attractive target for franchises looking to bolster their backcourt depth.
A Comeback Story Fueling Trade Interest
Lonzo Ball’s journey back to the NBA hardwood has been nothing short of inspiring. After missing nearly three full seasons due to a series of knee injuries, including a cartilage transplant surgery, Ball made a triumphant return in the 2024-25 season. Despite a right wrist sprain sidelining him for 15 games, he has appeared in 35 games, averaging 7.6 points, 3.4 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.3 steals per contest while shooting 36.6% from the field and 34.4% from three-point range. His ability to contribute as a playmaker, defender, and floor-spacer has rekindled interest in the former No. 2 overall pick from the 2017 NBA Draft.
Ball’s return to form has not gone unnoticed. Seven teams—the Los Angeles Clippers, Miami Heat, Charlotte Hornets, Los Angeles Lakers, Orlando Magic, Detroit Pistons, and Minnesota Timberwolves—have reportedly engaged in exploratory trade talks with the Bulls. These discussions center around Ball’s $21.3 million expiring contract, with Chicago open to moving him for second-round draft capital. The Dallas Mavericks have also been linked as a potential suitor, with a mock trade proposing a swap for Max Christie.
Why Teams Are Interested
Ball’s appeal lies in his versatility and unique skill set. When healthy, he’s a pass-first point guard who excels at pushing the pace, setting up teammates, and locking down opponents with his 6-foot-6 frame. His career averages of 11.9 points, 5.7 rebounds, 6.2 assists, and 1.6 steals per game across 252 games with the Lakers, Pelicans, and Bulls highlight his all-around impact. His 36.4% career three-point shooting adds a valuable dimension, making him a fit for teams needing a connector in their backcourt.
After signing a two-year, $20 million extension in February, Lonzo Ball is expected to be made available in trade talks by the Bulls.
Ball’s $10 million annual salary, which includes a team option for 2026-27, is easily digestible for contending teams in need of guard depth. pic.twitter.com/8TwcUpWlDt
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) June 3, 2025
However, Ball’s injury history remains a concern. Before his 2024-25 comeback, he hadn’t played since the 2021-22 season, where he averaged 13.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, 5.1 assists, and 1.8 steals while shooting an impressive 42.3% from three in 35 games for Chicago. Teams like the Lakers, where Ball began his career, and the Hornets, where his brother LaMelo plays, are intrigued by the possibility of adding him, but they must weigh his health risks against his potential contributions. Social media reactions reflect this sentiment, with fans noting, “Lakers would be foolish not to try,” while others hope for a “Win/Win” where Ball joins a contender.
Bulls’ Rebuild and Ball’s Future
The Bulls’ decision to shop Ball aligns with their ongoing rebuild. After trading Alex Caruso for Josh Giddey and sending DeMar DeRozan to Sacramento in a sign-and-trade, Chicago is focused on moving veterans like Ball, Zach LaVine, and Nikola Vucevic to build around younger talent. Reports suggest the Bulls aim to acquire draft capital, with Ball’s contract seen as a valuable asset due to its flexibility.
Fans on X are abuzz, with some expressing hope for a Ball family reunion in Charlotte alongside LaMelo, while others believe a contender like the Bucks could benefit from his playmaking. One fan wrote, “Not sure someone will pull the trigger on Lonzo right now, but the Bulls need to start trading off the vets and build around the young guys.” Another speculated, “I want LaMelo and Lonzo to play together.” The sentiment underscores Ball’s polarizing yet tantalizing value in the trade market.
What’s Next?
As the February 6, 2026, trade deadline approaches, the Bulls are expected to intensify their efforts to move Ball. His ability to stay healthy and contribute in the 2025-26 season will be critical in determining his trade value. For now, the NBA is watching closely, with teams ready to pounce on the opportunity to add a player of Ball’s caliber. Whether he lands with a contender or a team looking to pair him with a star like his brother LaMelo, one thing is clear: Lonzo Ball’s name will dominate trade discussions in the weeks to come.