Bulls land Lonzo Ball on 4-year deal in sign-and-trade with Pelicans

New Orleans Pelicans guard Lonzo Ball is heading to Chicago to join the Bulls on a four-year deal worth $85 million via a sign-and-trade.

Lonzo Ball is going to sign with the Chicago Bulls.

The New Orleans Pelicans guard agreed to a four-year, $85 million contract, according to multiple reports, with a sign-and-trade agreement.

Shams Charania of The Athletic reported New Orleans will get Czech guard Tomas Satoransky, veteran guard Garrett Temple and a second-round pick in the exchange.

While Thaddeus Young was floated as a possible make-weight in a deal for Ball, he was not included in the trade. Chicago could keep him around or use him to work out another deal.

The Bulls picked up Lonzo Ball via a sign-and-trade with the Pelicans

Ball had his best season as a pro in his second season with the Pelicans. He averaged 14.6 points, 5.7 assists, 4.8 rebounds and 1.5 steals per game with free agency looming. He posted career bests in field goal, 3-point and free-throw percentages in a sign that adjusting his shooting motion paid dividends in his offensive game.

Along with shooting the ball more effectively, he also reduced his turnovers. He’s come a long way from the player he was when he was drafted by the Lakers with major expectations on his shoulders.

The Bulls were on the lookout for a point guard to pair with Zach LaVine and they’ve found one.

It’s no surprise Ball was the player they went after. They reportedly tried to grab him in a trade during the 2020-21 season.

Chicago was 31-41 and third in the Central Division during the last campaign. They’re making this move to take another step toward contending for a playoff spot.

As for the Pelicans, they were always unlikely to match the contract offers Ball was going to receiver on the free agent market. Getting something back for him is a plus.