Cavaliers, Bulls Agree to Ball-Okoro Trade

The Cleveland Cavaliers have agreed to acquire guard Lonzo Ball from the Chicago Bulls in exchange for forward Isaac Okoro, with the trade set to become official after the NBA's moratorium ends on July 6. Ball, returning from two injury-plagued seasons, averaged 7.6 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.3 assists in 35 games last season and is expected to bolster Cleveland's backcourt amid Darius Garland's recovery from surgery and Ty Jerome's likely free agency departure. Okoro, who struggled offensively and saw reduced minutes last season, heads to Chicago as a younger, healthier 3-and-D option as the Bulls reset their roster. Financially, Ball's contract is considered manageable for the Cavaliers, aiding in luxury tax compliance, while Okoro's move gives the Bulls flexibility. The trade is viewed as a risk for Cleveland due to Ball's injury history but carries significant upside, while Chicago faces questions about the return for a former top pick. The deal reflects both teams' strategies: Cleveland aiming for title contention and Chicago focusing on a roster overhaul.