Following the NBA trade deadline, teams have shifted focus to the buyout market, with veteran guard Lonzo Ball drawing significant attention. On Thursday, the Cleveland Cavaliers traded Ball to the Utah Jazz in exchange for two second-round draft picks, but the Jazz subsequently waived the 6-foot-5 guard, making him available as a free agent. Ball’s availability has sparked speculation about which team he might join next during this free agency period.
Potential Destinations for Lonzo Ball in Free Agency
NBA insiders Jake Fischer and Brett Siegel have highlighted Lonzo Ball as a prime target for the Golden State Warriors among other interested teams. Ball’s skill set and experience could provide valuable depth for several franchises looking to strengthen their rosters as they push toward the playoffs. Below are the top three teams reportedly interested in acquiring Ball.
3. Possible Return to Family Roots with the Charlotte Hornets
The Charlotte Hornets have emerged as a potential landing spot for Lonzo Ball, sparking fan speculation about the possibility of him joining forces with his younger brother, LaMelo Ball. The Hornets are currently riding an eight-game winning streak—the longest active streak in the NBA—and hold a 24-28 record, tied for the final play-in position in the Eastern Conference. Bringing in Lonzo would add veteran leadership and provide a backup option behind LaMelo, potentially bolstering the team’s playoff push in this seventh NBA season for Lonzo.
2. Backup Role for Denver Nuggets’ Jamal Murray
According to Fischer and Siegel, the Denver Nuggets are also interested in signing Lonzo Ball. With first-time All-Star Jamal Murray leading their backcourt, the Nuggets could benefit from Ball’s ability to play steady minutes off the bench. As the No. 2 overall pick in the 2017 NBA draft, Lonzo could add valuable depth to Denver’s rotation as they look to make a deep postseason run.
1. Golden State Warriors Seek to Reinforce Guard Depth
The Golden State Warriors, after missing out on a superstar acquisition at the trade deadline, are aiming to build a competitive roster through strategic signings. They recently added big man Kristaps Porzingis from the Atlanta Hawks and view Lonzo Ball as a guard who can contribute to their backcourt depth. The Warriors currently have one roster spot open, making it feasible for Ball to join the team. Although Ball, 28, has faced multiple injuries during his career—including missing two full seasons due to a knee issue—interested teams have requested medical clearances before committing, according to NBA insider Chris Haynes.
Lonzo Ball’s Recent Performance and Career Context
In the 35 games he played with the Cleveland Cavaliers this season, Ball averaged 4.6 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 3.9 assists while coming off the bench. Despite his injury history, Ball’s versatility and court vision remain assets for teams in need of experienced guard play. His next destination could significantly influence team dynamics heading into the critical final stretch of the NBA season.
The Golden State Warriors are eyeing Lonzo Ball in the buyout market, per @JakeLFischer. pic.twitter.com/UUUvpxjdgP
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) February 7, 2026
Multiple teams have requested to review the medical of Lonzo Ball in order to make a determination on signing the new free-agent point guard, league sources tell me. pic.twitter.com/us0anF4o4R
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) February 7, 2026
