Report: Pelicans won’t trade Lonzo Ball without getting ‘significant’ return

Earlier this week it was reported that the New Orleans Pelicans have been entertaining the idea of parting ways with young guard Lonzo Ball.

While Ball may very well be on the move in the near future, the Pelicans are not expected to trade him away for cheap.

In fact, a Wednesday report from Ian Begley of SNY.tv indicates that the team will not move Ball unless they are offered an attractive deal.

“Now, two months from the 2021 trade deadline, some teams believe Ball will be available in trade scenarios for the right asking price, SNY sources say, confirming an Athletic report,” Begley wrote.

 

“One team monitoring the situation said the Pelicans value Ball and won’t deal him without getting a significant return.”

Of course, it remains to be seen what the Pelicans would deem a significant return. Considering their 5-10 record on the season, it does not seem likely that they are looking to gain pieces to strengthen a potential playoff run.

Instead, it seems most likely that they will look to acquire young players or future picks so that they can continue to build around Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson.

Only time will tell what the Pelicans may be able to net in exchange for the No. 2 overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft.