Execs Expect Pelicans To Consider Lonzo Ball Sign-And-Trade

[RealGM Wiretap]

The New Orleans Pelicans discussed Lonzo Ball with several teams before the trade deadline with the Los Angeles Clippers, Chicago Bulls, Denver Nuggets and Atlanta Hawks among the teams showing interest, sources tell ESPN.

Some executives came away from those talks with the impression that Ball might be made available in a sign-and-trade in the offseason as a restricted free agent.

The Pelicans, however, had indeed expressed interest in keeping Ball. 

Ball is averaging 14.5 points and 38.4% from 3 on 8.1 attempts per game, all career highs.

Via Brian Windhorst, Andrew Lopez/ESPN

[njknicks]

Lonzo has finally shown growth as a scorer / 3pt shooter in his 4th season -- could it be as a result of his brother stealing the spotlight? Playing alongside 2 prolific scorers in Zion & Ingram? Or being in a contract year? Likely a combination of all 3 factors.

Ultimately - Lonzo Ball is presently Dejounte Murray clone -- lanky great passer, rebounder / defender -- injury riddled, great speed but poor ( albeit improving ) range.

And he will be in for a big pay day this offseason ( with or without the Pelicans ).

[Theo Ratliff]

Here comes the overhyping again because he can finally knock down a consistent 3. He's averaging 14/6/4 on 42 percent shooting. You would think he's the next Jason Kidd if you listened to the media.