The Utah Jazz have acquired veteran guard Lonzo Ball in a three-team trade involving the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Atlanta Hawks, according to sources familiar with the transaction. The Jazz are expected to waive Ball shortly after finalizing the trade, allowing him to become a free agent.
While official details of the trade have not yet been released, this move comes as Ball continues his recovery journey after an extended absence from NBA competition. The 26-year-old guard has not played in an NBA game since January 2022 due to a series of knee injuries that required multiple surgeries. Prior to his injury, Ball was known for his playmaking skills, perimeter defense, and improved three-point shooting.
Ball was last officially on the roster of the Chicago Bulls, but it is unclear whether his rights were transferred prior to or as part of this deal. The transaction reportedly included center Jock Landale moving from Utah to another team, though the specific details of his destination and any additional assets involved remain undisclosed.
Utah’s decision to waive Ball is likely aimed at maintaining roster flexibility while acquiring other rights or salary considerations as part of the multi-team structure. For Ball, becoming a free agent provides an opportunity to explore potential fits with other teams once he is medically cleared to return to gameplay.
The former No. 2 overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft has played for the Los Angeles Lakers, New Orleans Pelicans, and Chicago Bulls during his six-season career. He has averaged 11.9 points, 6.2 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per game in 252 career appearances.
The Jazz, currently in a rebuilding phase focused on developing young talent and maintaining cap flexibility, have remained active on the trade market as they continue to shape their roster for the future. Additional moves near the league’s trade deadline may further clarify the team’s short-term and long-term strategic direction.
As Lonzo Ball prepares to re-enter the free-agent market, interest may emerge from teams seeking a versatile guard with a strong all-around game once he proves he is physically ready to return to action.
