Lonzo Ball started his Cleveland Cavaliers tenure in a preseason duel against his former team the Chicago Bulls.
While the Cavaliers lost 118-117, Lonzo's arrival in Cleveland is already looking like one of the best choices the Cavs could have made. During the preseason, the Cavs limited Ball's usage and playing time, keeping in line with their expected cautious approach to his health. Cleveland views Lonzo as a playoffs game-changer, making his preseason play an afterthought for the coaching staff.
Last season, Ball returned from a two-year recovery from a major knee injury. When he returned to the Bulls, he continued his role as an efficient passer and offensive engine as well as a defensive anchor and tireless rebounder.