Lonzo Ball Hits the Buyout Market: Three Teams That Could Make a Move
With the NBA trade deadline now in the rearview mirror, attention shifts to the buyout market - and one name making waves is Lonzo Ball.
The Cleveland Cavaliers sent the veteran guard to the Utah Jazz on Thursday in exchange for two second-round picks. Shortly after, the Jazz waived Ball, making him an unrestricted free agent and one of the most intriguing options available for contenders looking to bolster their backcourt depth.
According to league insiders, Ball has quickly climbed to the top of the Golden State Warriors’ wish list. But they're not the only team keeping tabs on the 6-foot-5 guard. Here’s a breakdown of the three most likely landing spots for Ball - and what he could bring to each.
3. Charlotte Hornets: A Family Reunion in the Making?
The idea of Lonzo Ball teaming up with his younger brother LaMelo in Charlotte has been floated before, but now it’s more than just a fun family storyline - it might actually make sense on the court.
The Hornets are riding high, entering the weekend on an eight-game win streak - the longest active streak in the league. At 24-28, they’ve clawed their way into a tie for the final play-in spot in the East. A team that was once considered a long shot is suddenly in the thick of the postseason race.
Ball, now in his seventh NBA season, could bring a steadying presence to a young Charlotte roster. He’d likely slot in as a backup to his brother, giving the Hornets a high-IQ playmaker who can defend multiple positions and keep the offense flowing when LaMelo sits. If Charlotte is serious about making a postseason push, adding a veteran like Ball - even in a limited role - could prove valuable.
2. Denver Nuggets: Depth Behind Jamal Murray
The defending champs are always looking for ways to stay one step ahead, and adding Lonzo Ball to the mix could be a savvy move.
Ball has reportedly drawn interest from Denver, where he’d serve as a backup to first-time All-Star Jamal Murray. The Nuggets’ rotation is solid, but behind Murray, there’s room for a guard who can handle the ball, defend at a high level, and keep the offense organized in key stretches.
Ball’s size and defensive instincts would fit nicely in Denver’s switch-heavy schemes. And while he’s not the scorer he once projected to be, his passing and court vision remain strong assets - especially in a system built around Nikola Jokić’s playmaking.
For a team with championship aspirations, Ball could be the kind of low-risk, high-reward addition that pays off in the postseason.
1. Golden State Warriors: A Smart Fit for a Team in Transition
The Warriors didn’t land a marquee name at the trade deadline, but they did swing a deal for Kristaps Porzingis to add size and scoring. Now, they’re looking to round out the roster - and Lonzo Ball might be the next piece.
Golden State has one open roster spot and a clear need for backcourt depth. With injuries and inconsistency plaguing their guard rotation this season, Ball could slide in as a reliable option off the bench. His ability to push the pace, make the right read, and defend multiple positions fits the Warriors’ system like a glove.
Of course, the biggest question with Ball is health. He’s dealt with a string of injuries, including a knee issue that sidelined him for two full seasons. Teams reportedly want to review his medicals before making a commitment - a fair ask, given the circumstances.
Still, in 35 games with Cleveland this season, Ball showed flashes of his old self, averaging 4.6 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 3.9 assists in a limited role. Those numbers don’t jump off the page, but for a team like Golden State that values smart, unselfish basketball, Ball’s impact could go well beyond the stat sheet.
Final Word
Lonzo Ball may not be the headline-grabbing name he once was, but he’s still a player who can make a difference - especially in the right situation. Whether it’s a family reunion in Charlotte, a depth play in Denver, or a strategic fit in Golden State, Ball’s next move will be one to watch as contenders gear up for the stretch run.