NBA free agency “officially” opened August 2 and 6:00 p.m. ET and the deals started coming in immediately, with Lonzo Ball heading to the Chicago Bulls on a four-year deal as the first agreement of the offseason.
Lonzo Ball fantasy basketball and Bulls futures impact
Ball is going to make Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic better, particularly the latter. The incoming guard has great vision and passing skills, which should lead to more points for the Bulls overall and big nights for Vucevic. Ball himself should thrive as the lead guard and his defensive impact will continue to be there in Chicago. From a betting standpoint, expect the Bulls to see their title futures rise but don’t back them without allowing the team to take the floor for a few games and prove they fit together.
As for Ball individually, he probably won’t garner much All-Star consideration even with stellar production. LaVine and Vucevic are more likely to be chosen for that designation on this team. LaVine could be a sleeper MVP pick if the Bulls ultimately don’t offer him an extension this offseason. Coby White, who likely moves to a bench role with Ball coming in, could be worth looking into as a Sixth Man of the Year candidate.