Lonzo Ball’s time in Chicago has been anything but smooth. After signing with the Bulls in 2021, he was expected to be the floor general that helped elevate the team into contention. When healthy, Ball proved to be a difference-maker, providing elite perimeter defense, playmaking, and 3-point shooting. However, lingering knee injuries have caused him to miss a lot of games, and his future remains murky.
With Chicago pivoting toward a rebuild, Ball’s name has surfaced in trade rumors. While moving him won’t be easy due to his contract and injury concerns, the Bulls could explore their options if they believe a fresh start is necessary.
Lonzo Ball’s Contract and Salary
Ball signed a four-year, $80 million contract with the Bulls in 2021 as part of a sign-and-trade deal with the New Orleans Pelicans. The contract runs through the 2024-25 season, with Ball set to earn $21.3 million in 2024-25 before becoming an unrestricted free agent.
Unfortunately for Chicago, Ball’s prolonged absence has turned his contract into a significant financial hurdle. In 2023, the Bulls applied for a disabled player exception to help ease the burden, but his deal still takes up valuable cap space.
Lonzo’s two-way impact, passing ability, and improved shooting make him a valuable piece for any team. However, with so much uncertainty surrounding his recovery, potential trade suitors may be hesitant to take on his salary without seeing him back to his pre-injury form.
Ball’s Career Earnings and Net Worth
Despite his injury setbacks, Ball has secured substantial earnings throughout his career. Since being drafted second overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2017, he has earned over $112 million in NBA contracts.
Ball’s net worth is estimated to be around $40 million, and his earnings come not just from his NBA contracts but also from various business ventures and endorsements over the years. While his early career was closely tied to Big Baller Brand, the sneaker company launched by his family, Ball later distanced himself from the brand and explored other opportunities.
Now back from injury, Ball is looking to regain his form and prove he can still be a valuable piece in the NBA. Whether he continues his journey in Chicago or eventually swerves to another team, Ball continues to be a heavily discussed topic by Bulls fans.
