The Boston Celtics hold the huge benefit of possessing the first overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft after the ping pong balls bounced their way last week.
One of the biggest stories since then has been the growing notion that UCLA point guard Lonzo Ball will only work out with his hometown Los Angeles Lakers, who hold the second overall pick in the draft.
In light of that, Celtics general manager Danny Ainge confirmed on Thursday during an appearance on the “Toucher & Rich” radio show that Ball informed him that he wouldn't be working out with the team but also made it clear that wouldn't be the deciding factor in steering away from the 19-year-old come draft night.
“Well, listen, we've drafted guys that wouldn't come in for workouts before, it's not the end of the world, we've watched them play a ton, we have a lot of information on them,” he said. “Sometimes players don't want to come in, not because they don't like you, but because they see our roster, they think they want to go to another team.”
Although it doesn't sound like the Celtics are too optimistic about taking Ball, it doesn't shut the door entirely on the idea of making the UCLA product the No. 1 overall selection next month. Ainge will do what he believes is best for the team's long-term and adding Ball could prove to be that if they perceive in any fashion that Isaiah Thomas isn't worth the huge lucrative contract that he will be lined up for after next season.
It also doesn't help Thomas' case in that regard with the Celtics performing better against the Cleveland Cavaliers with him sidelined due to a hip injury. This could create some sort of pause from the front office as Ball could potentially be the better long-term fit more so than Washington point guard Markelle Fultz because of his playmaking ability as a passer.
As for Ball, he is making it quite clear that he wants to join the Lakers with his actions. In fact, his father, LaVar Ball, has repeatedly voiced that over the last few weeks and to an even greater degree after the NBA Draft lottery last week.
All in all, the Celtics have plenty of time to contemplate what route they will go, which indubitably puts Ball's NBA fate directly in their hands regardless if he wants to work out with them or not.
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