Lonzo Ball hasn’t played for the Chicago Bulls since January 14, 2022. He will be two years gone from his last NBA game in just a few days. As a result, Ball’s salary is primarily covered by the NBA’s insurance policy, making his contract a valuable trade piece if Chicago decides to use it.
According to Marc Stein of the SteinLine newsletter, there have been whispers around the NBA that the Bulls may attempt to use Ball’s contract in trade talks.
“Potentially supporting such notions are the recent whispers that the Bulls have not completely ruled out using Lonzo Ball’s insurance-covered contract in a trade to add talent,” Stein reported. “…The Bulls certainly aren’t known for such payroll-increasing moves, which inevitably invokes some believe-it-when-we-see-it skepticism, but it is a pathway for them to consider.”
Ball’s contract, which holds a player option valued at $21.4 million for the following season, is expected to be upheld due to his extended absence from the game. There’s uncertainty regarding his return to the court and whether he’ll perform at his previous level. For Chicago, moving away from a player they built their roster around might be a wise move to enhance their team’s flexibility.
The Bulls are in a tricky spot. If they’re not planning a complete rebuild, improving the team without disrupting their core rotation will be challenging. While Ball is a remarkable playmaker at his peak, his extended hiatus from the sport raises doubts about his imminent performance.
Chicago must prioritize the franchise’s best interests, even if it means trading a player they supported through a lengthy absence. Making shrewd business choices for the team’s benefit is crucial.
With the trade deadline approaching, Ball’s contract could serve as a valuable asset. Although he possesses exceptional skills, his extended time away from the game diminishes the certainty of his immediate impact.
There’s an opportunity for Chicago to explore trades involving salary dumps, especially with teams acknowledging they’re not yet ready to contend. Acquiring a short-term contract covered by insurance might provide the Bulls with the flexibility they seek.
Chicago faces critical decisions, and time is ticking. Failing to act promptly might delay their roster changes until the offseason. Nevertheless, given their recent improvement, a delayed overhaul might not necessarily be detrimental.
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