The Chicago Bulls have been at the center of trade rumors as the 2024-25 NBA season reaches a critical juncture, and Lonzo Ball, the team’s talented point guard, has once again grabbed the spotlight. In a recent interview on The WAE Show, Ball made a surprising statement about his former Los Angeles Lakers teammate, LeBron James, sending shockwaves through the basketball community.
Lonzo Ball’s Bold Claim
When asked about LeBron James’ ability to maintain his elite performance at age 40, Ball didn’t hold back: “LeBron is a phenomenon, but I think he’s in the final stage of his peak. If the Lakers want to compete for a championship, they need to build around Anthony Davis, not LeBron. He’s still a superstar, but time waits for no one.”
Who’s y’all face of the league?#LeBronJames #SportsNews #NBA pic.twitter.com/yo8RHU7RXZ
— The WAE Show (@TheWAEShow) March 12, 2025
This statement immediately sparked controversy, especially considering Ball and James were teammates during the 2018-19 season with the Lakers. Ball, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, played alongside James during the early stages of his career as the Lakers attempted to rebuild their roster. While their relationship has always been described as cordial, Ball’s candid remarks have left many wondering if there’s any underlying tension between him and “The King.”
Context and Community Reaction
Ball’s statement comes at a time when the Lakers are grappling with how to strategize for the upcoming season. LeBron James, despite still delivering an impressive 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game in the 2024-25 season, cannot escape the challenges of aging. Meanwhile, Anthony Davis is in the prime of his career, emerging as the Lakers’ indispensable cornerstone.
Fans on social media were quick to react to Ball’s comments. One user on X posted, “Lonzo’s got a point, but calling out LeBron like that takes guts!” Another countered, “Ball needs to look at his own game before commenting on a legend like LeBron.”
Basketball analysts also offered mixed opinions. Some believe Ball is simply trying to stir the pot amid ongoing trade rumors, particularly with the Dallas Mavericks. According to a recent Fastbreak on SI report, the Mavericks are considering acquiring Ball to bolster their point guard position, especially with Kyrie Irving sidelined due to injury.
Lonzo Ball’s NBA Journey
Lonzo Ball’s NBA career has been a rollercoaster. After a standout college career at UCLA, he joined the Lakers with sky-high expectations of becoming a superstar. However, injuries have plagued his career, particularly during the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons when he was largely absent from the court. The 2024-25 season marked Ball’s comeback with the Chicago Bulls, where he averaged 7.6 points and 3.3 assists over 35 games.
While no longer at the peak of his early-career promise, Ball remains a highly regarded playmaker with excellent court vision and defensive skills. His two-year, $20 million contract with the Bulls, signed at the start of this season, reflects the team’s continued faith in his potential, though his future in Chicago remains uncertain.
Trade Rumors with the Dallas Mavericks
Amid the controversy surrounding his comments about LeBron, Ball is also at the heart of trade discussions. The Dallas Mavericks, fresh off securing the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and selecting Cooper Flagg, are looking to strengthen their point guard position. With Kyrie Irving expected to return in January or February 2026 following an ACL injury, the Mavericks need a temporary solution, and Ball is seen as a potential fit.
According to ESPN, a trade package could involve Caleb Martin and a draft pick in exchange for Ball. However, concerns about Ball’s health remain a sticking point for some teams. Seven NBA teams, including the Clippers, Heat, Hornets, Lakers, Magic, Pistons, and Timberwolves, have reportedly contacted the Bulls to discuss acquiring Ball.
Conclusion
Lonzo Ball’s statement about LeBron James has not only stirred the basketball community but also raised questions about the future of both players in the NBA. For Ball, a successful return from injury and a potential new home could be a turning point in his career. Meanwhile, LeBron James continues to defy Father Time, but will the Lakers heed Ball’s suggestion and shift their focus to Anthony Davis? Only time will tell.