Pelicans ‘unlikely’ to match significant offer sheet for Lonzo Ball
New Orleans Pelicans guard Lonzo Ball will hit the free-agent market for the first time in his career.
Ball will enter the offseason as a restricted free agent, providing the Pelicans the chance to match any contract offer he receives. However, Shams Charania of The Athletic is reporting that New Orleans is unlikely to match any lucrative contract.
The New Orleans Pelicans is unlikely to match a significant offer sheet on Ball, sources said.
The Bulls and Clippers are expected to be among the teams interested in him, according to sources.
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The 23-year-old spent the last two seasons with the Pelicans after being acquired as part of the blockbuster trade with the Los Angeles Lakers. Ball quickly became a significant part of the core group in New Orleans, averaging 13.1 points, 6.4 assists, and 5.5 rebounds on 40.9% shooting from the floor and 37.6% from 3-point range.
He’s become a more efficient 3-point shooter after deciding to adjust his shooting form. Lonzo Ball shot a career-best 37.8% from beyond the arc this past season, along with averaging a career-high 14.6 points.
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The Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Clippers may both present lucrative offer sheets. The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly interested in reacquiring Ball.
There will likely be several more teams eyeing the UCLA product as he’s proven to be a strong asset behind his passing. Ball has also become a more dependable shooter and defender.
As free agency nears closer, he will have a better idea concerning the market he will have around the league.
