Windhorst: Bulls' Lonzo Ball, Nets' Ben Simmons Could Be Cavs Contract Buyout Targets

The Cleveland Cavaliers could target the Chicago Bulls' Lonzo Ball or Brooklyn Nets' Bill Simmons if either player is bought out this season, according to ESPN's Brian Windhorst.

Windhorst said Tuesday on ESPN Cleveland he believes the Cavaliers will be looking for "a perimeter guard who has size and can defend."

"Two guys who could be bought out, that fit that bill, are Lonzo Ball and Ben Simmons," Windhorst said.

Both Ball and Simmons are playing on expiring contracts, with Ball having exercised a $21.4 million player option and Simmons earning just over $40 million in the final year of his deal.

ClutchPoints' Brett Siegel reported in December that the Nets had "zero interest" in buying out Simmons, who has taken on a larger role with the team following the trade of Dennis Schröder.

If the Nets do decide to part ways with Simmons this season, however, a buyout is likely their only option. The size of Simmons' contract and his 6.3 point-per-game output do not make him a viable trade candidate.

Ball is meanwhile averaging 7.0 points per game in his first campaign back after missing two and a half seasons with knee injuries.

After acquiring Josh Giddey from the Oklahoma City Thunder this offseason, the Bulls could consider moving on from Ball, especially given his expiring contract.

If possible, the Bulls would likely prefer to get assets back for Ball's expiring contract.

There is also the chance Ball plays out his contract in Chicago. The Athletic's Sam Vecenie recently reported that the Bulls "are thought to be very happy with Ball and love having him around the team for his presence in the locker room."

The trade deadline is Feb. 6, and the buyout deadline is March 1. Both Simmons and Ball could still be with their current teams by then. If either is bought out, however, the Cavs could consider trying to add either player on a potentially discounted salary.