A particular developing story of note for the Chicago Bulls on the morning of Aug. 2 (the same day as the opening of the free agency negotiation window) involved the New Orleans Pelicans restricted free agent point guard Lonzo Ball. It seems like all of the buzz for the Bulls throughout the offseason thus far surrounded the potential pursuit of Lonzo in restricted free agency.
And that’s exactly what looks to be coming to a head this week with the free agency negotiation window opening on the afternoon of Aug. 2. Given that the time to be able to announce official signings in free agency is set to come later this week, specifically on Aug. 6, this developing story could continue to build fast for the Bulls.
There are now multiple reports coming out that the Bulls are in conversation with the likes of the Pelicans and Charlotte Hornets in a three-team sign-and-trade deal that could land Lonzo in Chicago. One report from Kristian Winfield of the NY Daily News on Twitter on Aug. 2 shows that the Bulls could land Lonzo from the Pelicans, while sending a piece to the Hornets.
What has to happen for the Chicago Bulls to land Lonzo Ball this week?
I'm told the Hornets, Pelicans and Bulls have discussed a three-team deal that sends Devonte Graham to the New Orleans, Lonzo Ball to the Chicago and Lauri Markkanen to Charlotte.
— Kristian Winfield (@Krisplashed) August 2, 2021
The Pelicans would also get something in return here too.
An SNY report earlier on Aug. 2 also expressed that the Bulls are in conversation with the Pelicans and Hornets to get a three-team sign-and-trade deal done to get Lonzo to Chicago. That report had other pieces getting moved around between Charlotte, Chicago, and New Orleans, though.
So, which players could actually be on the move if Lonzo is to land with the Bulls? Here’s a look at three to watch in particular.