23-year-old point guard Lonzo Ball is set to become a restricted free agent this summer.
While he did say that he’d “love” to be back in a Pelicans jersey next season, the status of his future remains uncertain as the free agency period prepares to kick off in just a few days.
In fact, according to one of the most recent reports by Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus, ‘Zo is pretty much out of the door already…
“I’ve heard the Lonzo/Pels marriage is over.”
“I've hard the Lonzo/Pels marriage is over.”
(via @EricPincus) pic.twitter.com/fW0FqUJZ8f
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) July 28, 2021
Lonzo, who grew up in Chino Hills California, played a season for UCLA before being drafted 2nd by the L.A. Lakers in the 2017 NBA Draft.
His development as a player has been slow so far marked with gradual improvements to his shooting, playmaking, and defensive abilities. During the 2020-21 season, he averaged 14.6 points, 5.7 assists, and 4.8 rebounds per game on 41.4% shooting.
He’s been a key piece for New Orleans since his arrival, but it seems both sides might finally be ready to move on.
Already, several teams have been reported to be interested in Lonzo, including the Knicks, Bulls, Mavs, Heat, and Raptors. The Lakers might also join the race at some point.
Whatever the case, starting-level point guards are highly valued at the moment, and teams will be lining up to get their chance with Ball this offseason.
In a sea of names that includes Chris Paul, Kyle Lowry, and Mike Conley, Lonzo won’t be the only guard available. He may, however, be the most intriguing…
