Multiple NBA teams are expressing interest in signing guard Lonzo Ball, with the Golden State Warriors appearing to be a frontrunner, as reported by insider Chris Haynes. Both the Warriors and the Denver Nuggets are in need of filling open roster spots, with each team currently having two vacancies on their 15-man lists. They must have their rosters updated to 14 players within the next two weeks.
Lonzo Ball, a former No. 2 overall draft pick in 2017, has faced significant health challenges throughout his career, notably a left knee injury that has required three surgeries and sidelined him for over two seasons. Most recently, he played for the Cleveland Cavaliers before being traded to the Utah Jazz in a salary-dump move, and subsequently being waived, making him an unrestricted free agent pending the clearance of waivers.
In his single season with the Cavaliers, Ball experienced a notable slump, averaging just 4.6 points per game, along with 4.0 rebounds and 3.9 assists, while struggling with his shooting performance. He recorded career-low shooting numbers of .301 from the field and .272 from beyond the three-point line, which, while reflective of his recent form, may not fully capture his abilities as a player, given that nearly 84% of his shots during that span were three-pointers.
Simultaneously, the Warriors are also looking to move 29-year-old Pat Spencer from a two-way deal to a standard contract. Spencer has shown promise, especially in the Warriors’ recent victory over the Phoenix Suns where he scored a team-high 20 points, demonstrating his potential to contribute in the absence of Stephen Curry.
With various teams, particularly the Warriors and Nuggets, showing interest in Ball, it remains to be seen how this will unfold as the season progresses. The prospects of Ball finding a new home with either team may offer him a fresh start and an opportunity to revive his career. Both the Warriors and Nuggets are looking to bolster their rosters, which could lead to an exciting development for fans and the player alike.