Could Lonzo Ball return to Los Angeles before the 2021 NBA trade deadline?
The Pelicans guard, who began his professional career with the Lakers, has become a top target for the Clippers. The New York Times’ Mark Stein reported on Friday Clippers are “exploring trade routes” to acquire the ball before the 3pm deadline on Thursday afternoon.
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It is easy to understand why the Clippers would be interested in adding Ball to the roster. He is averaging 14.2 points, 5.6 assists and 4.2 rebounds per game this season, while shooting a career-high 38.5 percent from 3-point range on high volume. He has always been a terrific passer, but his development into a strong spot-up shooter will allow him to throw and close the ball, along with Paul George and Qui Leonard. He is also a solid defender at both guard locations.
However there are hurdles hindering some potential Clippers-Pelicans deal. The blockbuster George highlights the Los Angeles trade property after essentially giving control of his draft picks to Oklahoma City for the next decade and a half as part of the trade. The Clippers have useless second rounders, but which players need to be put on the table to make it worth the Pails?
Additionally, Los Angeles may not be alone in its pursuit of the ball. Shams Charania of Athletic reported to return in January There were calls from several teams to New Orleans about the availability of Ball and JJ Redick, and he said the Pelicans had shown “an openness” to discuss trades involving both players. If it comes down to choosing the best offer, it is difficult to see how Shear will emerge as the top option until a third team jumps.
And all of this is assuming that New Orleans is committed to the moving ball. Pulse’s front office can go through a process of due diligence, then keep the ball as the team attempts to advance to the playoffs and consider its options when the ball restricts hits to this free agency. (The Pelicans are ranked 12th in the Western Conference standings as of Friday and will need to finish 10th to participate in the play-in round.)
Lawrence Frank, president of the basketball operations’ Clippers, has always kept his cards near his chest, and he has managed to execute some shocking deals in the past. It is possible that Klips would figure out a way to pull another stunner by getting the ball before the deadline, but it certainly would not be easy.
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