Lonzo Ball Traded to Cleveland Cavaliers on Two-Year, $20 Million Deal: $10M in 2025–26, Team Option for 2026–27

 

In a move that sent shockwaves through the NBA’s backcourt landscape, the Cleveland Cavaliers have acquired veteran point guard Lonzo Ball from the Chicago Bulls in exchange for wing defender Isaac Okoro. The trade, first reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania, marks a strategic pivot for both franchises as they enter the 2025–26 offseason.

 

📌 Trade Details & Compensation

 

Cavaliers receive: Lonzo Ball, who last year appeared in 35 games with the Bulls, averaging 7.6 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.3 assists. After missing two full seasons due to knee surgeries, Ball made a successful return and is under contract via a two-year, $20 million deal, which breaks down to $10 million in 2025–26, with a team option for 2026–27.

 

Bulls receive: Isaac Okoro, 24, a former fifth-overall pick known for his defensive intensity but limited offensive output. He’s set to earn $11 million next season and $11.8 million in 2026–27, both guaranteed.

 

Timing: While the trade was agreed upon June 28, it becomes official once the new NBA league year opens on July 6.

 

 

🎯 Cleveland’s Perspective: Vision, Versatility & Value

 

Cavaliers GM Mike Gansey has long emphasized a need for an experienced floor general, especially following Darius Garland’s toe surgery expected to keep him out to start the season. Lonzo brings:

 

1. Elite playmaking – Excellent half-court decision-making, transition passing, and off-ball awareness.

 

 

2. Defensive IQ – At 6’6″, Ball is a highly capable perimeter defender who fits the Cavs’ gritty defensive scheme.

 

 

3. Cost-efficiency – With $10 million due this season and a team option in 2026–27, Ball offers the Cavaliers financial control and roster flexibility.

 

 

 

Ball’s injury history remains a concern, but Cleveland’s medical staff is optimistic based on his recent progress and clean scans.

 

⚠️ The Risk Factor: Ball’s Knee History

 

After multiple knee surgeries, including a rare cartilage transplant, Ball’s durability is still a gamble. However, his performance in the latter part of 2024–25 showed flashes of his pre-injury self — with solid defensive metrics and a resurgent shooting touch from deep.

 

For the Cavaliers, it’s a high-upside move with a controllable downside, thanks to the team option on year two of his contract.

 

🔁 Chicago’s Strategy: Younger, Safer, and Cheaper?

 

From Chicago’s point of view, the trade was about stability and defense. Isaac Okoro, though not an elite offensive contributor, gives the Bulls a 3-and-D wing who can guard positions 1 through 3. His fully guaranteed contract through 2027 offers long-term rotation security.

 

Still, critics question whether Chicago sold too low on Ball, particularly given his value when healthy. Many believe they could’ve netted a draft pick in addition to Okoro had they waited or negotiated further.

 

💰 Contract Comparison

 

Player 2025–26 Salary 2026–27 Salary Notes

 

Lonzo Ball $10 million Team option Two-year, $20M deal

Isaac Okoro $11 million $11.8 million Fully guaranteed through 2027

 

 

 

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🧠 Final Thoughts: High Stakes for Low Risk?

 

The Cavaliers made a calculated gamble. Ball’s contract — $10 million with a team option — limits the downside. If he’s healthy and productive, they’ve added an elite connector and floor general to pair with Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley.

 

Chicago, meanwhile, secures a younger piece with fewer medical question marks. But if Ball thrives in Cleveland, the Bulls may face regret for letting a potential All-Defensive talent go for limited return.

 

Only time — and Ball’s knees — will tell who won this trade.