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yesterday

Bulls and Cavaliers Agree to One-for-One Swap of Lonzo Ball and Isaac Okoro

The agreement locks in a July 1 swap that sends Ball’s health-dependent contract to Cleveland with Chicago acquiring a durable, defensive-minded wing.

Feb 28, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Lonzo Ball (2) hits a three point shot against Toronto Raptors guard Jamal Shead (23) during overtime at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images/File Photo
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Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball smiles after making a 3-point shot during the second half against the Detroit Pistons at the United Center on Jan. 11, 2022, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)
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Overview

  • The Bulls and Cavaliers struck the deal on June 28, making it official at the start of the new league year on July 1.
  • Lonzo Ball joins Cleveland on a two-year, $20 million pact that carries a $10 million salary in 2025-26 and a team option for 2026-27 after he averaged 7.6 points, 3.4 rebounds and 3.3 assists in 35 games following two seasons lost to knee injuries.
  • Chicago receives 24-year-old Isaac Okoro in the second year of his three-year, $33 million contract, which counts $11 million against the cap in 2025-26 and guarantees $11.8 million in 2026-27.
  • The Bulls view Okoro as a younger, defensive-minded rotational piece to bolster a youth-driven rebuild targeting a competitive window around 2026.
  • Cleveland is banking on Ball’s defensive versatility and playmaking to shore up its backcourt depth while managing its salary commitments with a veteran-friendly contract structure.