NBA Trade Deadline: Lonzo Ball Traded to Utah Before Being Released

Just hours before the NBA trade deadline, the Cleveland Cavaliers officially announced the departure of Lonzo Ball to the Utah Jazz. The American point guard, along with two second-round draft picks, will not stay in Salt Lake City as he will be immediately released by his new franchise.

This operation is clearly a « salary dump » by Cleveland, looking to lighten their payroll. Ball was earning $10 million this season, and the Cavaliers agreed to sacrifice two picks to get rid of this burdensome contract.

PLAYER PROFILE

Lonzo BALL

Lonzo BALL

Position(s): Point Guard

Height: 198 cm

Age: 28 years (10/27/1997)

Nationality:

Stats 2025-2026 / NBA

PTS

4.6

#352

REB

4

#187

AST

3.9

#76

A Fit That Never Worked in Cleveland

On the floor, Lonzo Ball’s stint in Cleveland never found traction. Across 35 appearances this season, the former No. 2 pick produced modest returns—4.6 points, 4.0 rebounds and 3.9 assists per game—while shooting just 30.1 percent from the field. As the year progressed, he slipped out of Kenny Atkinson’s regular rotation.

According to ESPN, “Ball’s agent, Rich Paul, and the Jazz are expected to discuss his future soon.” For Utah, the logic is straightforward: take on short-term salary to acquire draft compensation, then move on by waiving the player.

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Massive Savings for Cleveland

The move delivers significant financial relief for the Cleveland Cavaliers. By clearing Lonzo Ball’s contract, Cleveland frees up roughly $65 million—$10 million in remaining salary and an estimated $55 million in luxury-tax savings.

The transaction fits into a broader reshaping of the roster. After moving Darius Garland to the Los Angeles Clippers and bringing in James Harden, Dennis Schröder and Keon Ellis, the Cavaliers also dealt De’Andre Hunter. In total, Cleveland trimmed more than $115 million from its books in a 48-hour span without materially compromising on-court competitiveness.

Once waived by the Utah Jazz, Ball will enter unrestricted free agency and be free to choose his next destination. Still just 27, he remains an intriguing low-cost option for teams seeking a guard who can defend, organize the offense and operate effectively off the ball. The timing is notable, with the NBA trade deadline set for Thursday night at 9 p.m.