The Lonzo Ball sweepstakes are heating up, and this time, it’s not just smoke - there’s real movement behind the scenes.
Multiple teams have reportedly requested access to Ball’s medical records, a clear sign that interest is legitimate and that front offices are doing their homework. It all comes down to one thing: health. If the medicals check out, Ball could be back on an NBA roster sooner rather than later.
Right now, the Golden State Warriors appear to be emerging as a frontrunner. Their interest has been building steadily, and they’re actively exploring ways to bolster their backcourt depth. While they’ve recently looked at converting Pat Spencer’s two-way deal, they’re also seriously eyeing Ball, who’s expected to land somewhere in the Western Conference.
Don’t count out the Denver Nuggets, though. They’ve shown real interest as well, and both teams - Golden State and Denver - have two open roster spots to play with. That flexibility matters, especially with the All-Star break approaching and playoff positioning starting to take shape.
Ball, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2017 draft, is now an unrestricted free agent after being waived by the Jazz. That move came after a salary-clearing trade from Cleveland, where he had a rocky stint.
His time with the Cavaliers was limited and inconsistent - he averaged just 4.6 points over 35 games and struggled from deep. But context matters here.
The volume was low, and his rhythm never quite settled, which isn’t surprising given what he’s been through.
And that’s the heart of the conversation: Ball’s health. He’s missed two-and-a-half seasons due to multiple surgeries on his left knee.
That kind of layoff is no small thing, especially for a guard whose game relies on pace, vision, and defensive agility. But teams aren’t just kicking the tires out of curiosity.
They’re calling because they know what a healthy Lonzo Ball can bring.
At his best, Ball is a connector - a high-IQ floor general who moves the ball, defends at a high level, and doesn’t need to dominate the scoring column to impact the game. He’s the kind of player who makes good teams better, and that’s exactly why contenders are circling.
There’s risk, sure. But there’s also upside - the kind that’s hard to find midseason.
If the knee holds up, Ball could be one of the more intriguing additions of the stretch run. For now, it’s a waiting game, but don’t be surprised if a deal comes together quickly once the medical reviews are complete.
The calls are coming in, and the clock is ticking.