Report: NBA executives believe Pelicans will discuss sign-and-trade deal for Lonzo Ball this offseason

Some executives in the NBA reportedly believe that the New Orleans Pelicans will discuss a sign-and-trade deal for Lonzo Ball this coming offseason.

Ball, who will be a restricted free agent following the 2020-21 season, could sign a deal with the Pelicans in order for them to facilitate a trade for another player and match salaries.

“The New Orleans Pelicans discussed Lonzo Ball with several teams before the trade deadline with the Los Angeles Clippers, Chicago Bulls, Denver Nuggets and Atlanta Hawks among the teams showing interest, sources tell ESPN,” ESPN’s Brian Windhorst and Andrew Lopez wrote.

 

“Some executives came away from those talks with the impression that Ball might be made available in a sign-and-trade in the offseason as a restricted free agent.”

This season, Ball is averaging 14.5 points, 4.2 rebounds and 5.7 assists per game. He is also shooting a career-high 38.4 percent from 3-point range.

If the Pelicans don’t view Ball as a part of their long-term plans, finding a way to deal him would get them the most value this offseason.