INDEPENDENCE, Ohio — Lonzo Ball is entering a new chapter in his career, focusing on integrating with a fresh team rather than navigating the complexities of rehab from a knee injury for the first time in several seasons.
On Monday, the seasoned guard was seen at the Cleveland Cavaliers’ practice facility, engaging with the medical team and coaching staff following his recent trade from the Chicago Bulls, finalized over the weekend.
The trade between Chicago and Cleveland was agreed upon on June 28, becoming official at the start of the new league year on Sunday.
“This fits my play style perfectly,” Ball stated. “Don [Donovan Mitchell] is among the elite players in the league. Plus, the team has versatile big men capable of executing pick-and-rolls and attacking the basket, along with defensive switching.”
“We have the potential to execute various strategies on both offense and defense, which is an exciting opportunity.”
Ball recorded an average of 7.6 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.3 assists during the past season, playing only 35 games after missing the previous two seasons because of a left knee injury. At 27, he underwent a meniscus and cartilage transplant in March 2023 due to complications from prior surgeries following an injury sustained in the 2021-22 season.
Although he was sidelined for the last two months of the season with a sprained wrist, he expressed optimism about his knee’s performance throughout the year.
“After returning, I had no expectations, but during my first preseason game against Minnesota, I was pleasantly surprised by my mobility,” Ball reflected. “I felt like my performance improved as the season progressed. Unfortunately, I dealt with wrist issues, but my knee felt solid.”
Drafted second overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2017, Ball is now in the final year of his contract, which includes a team option for the 2026-27 season.
The Cavaliers identified a gap at the point guard position, especially after Ty Jerome’s signing with the Memphis Grizzlies. Current starter Darius Garland is expected to miss the season opener due to recent left big toe surgery.
Despite finishing the last season with an impressive 64-18 record, Cleveland faced an early exit in the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Indiana Pacers.
In his six-year career, Ball has yet to compete in a playoff game—something he hopes to change moving forward.
“With the start of the season approaching, it’s vital not to get too far ahead. Last year, they were the top team in the East, and clearly, winning a championship is the goal,” he remarked. “Right now, I’m focused on being fit, training in the gym, and ensuring my lower body remains strong.”