Report: Bulls, Celtics, Raptors expected to show interest in Lonzo Ball
The Chicago Bulls, Boston Celtics, and Toronto Raptors are expected to show interest in impending restricted free agent Lonzo Ball, Stadium's Shams Charania reports.
Ball showcased his impressive two-way skill set last season for the New Orleans Pelicans. The 2017 second overall pick averaged 14.6 points, 5.7 assists, and 4.8 rebounds along with 1.5 steals and 0.6 blocks per game across 55 starts.
After trading Kemba Walker to the Oklahoma City Thunder, Boston may be looking to fill a need at point guard. Ball would allow defensive stopper Marcus Smart to continue occupying a sixth-man role for Ime Udoka's squad.
The 23-year-old playmaker could also fit in well as a member of Chicago's backcourt alongside Coby White and Tomas Satoransky. The Bulls expressed interest in Ball during last season's trade deadline.
If Kyle Lowry departs the Raptors in free agency, the defensive-minded Ball could serve as a potential replacement in the team's starting lineup next to Fred VanVleet.
The Pelicans can match any offer Ball receives once free agency begins Aug. 2.