Lonzo Ball Waived by Jazz After Cavaliers Trade

Lonzo Ball is headed toward free agency after the Cavaliers traded him to the Utah Jazz, who are expected to waive him. Several teams that were linked to Ball in trade talks — notably the Hornets and Wizards — could still pursue him, while contenders like the Lakers may target his perimeter defense. In Cleveland he averaged 4.6 points, 4.0 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 1.3 steals with troubling 30.1/27.2/66.7 shooting splits. Merlin sees this as a crossroads. Teams will value Ball’s length and defensive instincts but worry about his scoring efficiency. Charlotte offers a reunion with LaMelo and a clear role. Los Angeles offers familiarity and a playoff window. Expect multiple teams to test him and hope a change of scenery rekindles his shot.