Lonzo Ball has sounded off on the trade talks linking him to a move away from the New Orleans Pelicans. According to a report, the 23-year-old appears to be willing to remain in New Orleans, despite his dad, LaVar Ball, adamantly stating that Lonzo wants out.
According to Marc Berman of the New York Post, Lonzo has contradicted his father's statement as the former looks to stay on with the Pelicans:
Despite LaVar’s bold remarks on Los Angeles radio, The Post has learned Lonzo doesn’t feel the same way about being dealt Thursday. The Pelicans have had a disappointing season — 18-24, in 11th place in the West.
However, Ball’s preference is to fight for a playoff berth with New Orleans and put his focus on his first free agency, one NBA source said.
Berman's report also indicated that the Pelicans are reportedly willing to listen to trade offers, but are asking for a lottery pick in exchange for Ball. The Atlanta Hawks have reportedly tabled a deal centered around Cam Reddish, while the Chicago Bulls offered Tomas Satoransky and several second-rounders. Both failed to meet New Orleans' valuation of Ball.
It is also important to note that Ball is currently on the final year of his contract. He is set to become a free agent in the summer, so it would be in the best interest of the Pelicans to trade him now as opposed to losing him for nothing come the offseason. That is unless they intend to offer him an extension, of course.