Lonzo Ball's journey through the NBA has been nothing short of a rollercoaster, and as the trade deadline passed, his future remains uncertain. Once a highly-touted second overall pick, Ball is now navigating the waters of free agency, with the Golden State Warriors seemingly stepping back from any immediate interest.
Recently waived by the Utah Jazz, Ball's name was buzzing in connection with the Warriors. However, the chatter has cooled, and Ball has opened up about his recent experiences, including his departure from the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Ball's stint with the Cavaliers was brief but eventful. Brought in as a key offseason acquisition, his time in Cleveland ended after just 35 games, with the franchise opting for salary cap relief.
Ball feels he was unfairly labeled as a scapegoat for the team's struggles early in the season. He’s been vocal on social media, addressing critics who have been harsh on his current form.
"I know I'm the scapegoat right now but that comes with the name," Ball shared. "Can I play better?
Yes. Have I been playing terrible?
I don't think I have. I've been shooting bad."
Indeed, the numbers tell a challenging story. Ball's shooting has been off, hitting just 30.1% from the field and 27.2% from three-point range, a dip from his career average of 35.5% from beyond the arc.
Yet, focusing solely on his shooting misses the broader picture of his game. Ball is known for his defensive prowess, rebounding ability, and elite passing skills, averaging 4.0 rebounds and 3.9 assists in just over 20 minutes per game with the Cavaliers.
These attributes might have piqued the Warriors' interest initially, especially given their need for versatile players after Jimmy Butler's season-ending knee injury. However, scoring remains a pressing need for Golden State.
Despite past knee injuries that sidelined him for nearly three years, Ball insists he's physically fit and moving well. Since his return in October 2024, he's played 70 games between the Cavaliers and the Chicago Bulls, showcasing his resilience and determination.
As Ball continues to seek his next NBA destination, the Warriors' recent signing of Nate Williams to a two-way contract suggests that Ball might not be heading to the Bay Area. For now, the wait continues for the former UCLA standout, as he hopes to find a new home in the league for the remainder of the season and beyond.