Pelicans Seem Unlikely To Match Significant Offer For Lonzo Ball

The Pelicans seem unlikely to match a significant offer to restricted free agent point guard Lonzo Ball, according Shams Charania of The Athletic.Lonzo Ball” width=”300″ height=”169″>

Ball, 23, is coming off his best season, averaging 14.6 points and shooting 38 percent on 3-pointers. He also passed for 5.7 assists per game and compiled 4.8 rebounds.

Per Luke Adams of Hoops Rumors, Ball could be looking at a deal in four-year, $85 million range, similar to those received by the Pacers’ Malcolm Brogdon and Raptors’ Fred VanVleet. “Ball would be doing well to land a contract that matches or exceeds those deals,” Adams wrote.

While free agency doesn’t begin until Aug. 2, the Bulls and Knicks have already been cited as team’s with an interest is signing Ball.

Others are certain to emerge before then, though it’s hard to believe the Pelicans would be OK with losing him for nothing. If they decide not to match an offer, it will probably end up being a sign-and trade arrangement so New Orleans gets someone in return.

The Pelicans are still searching for a new head coach, with Suns assistant Willie Green reportedly the early frontrunner for the job.