Lonzo Ball’s mini–swivel from Chicago to Cleveland could tilt the East if his durability cooperates. His playmaking and defense would slot in behind Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland, potentially unlocking Cleveland’s offense if he stays healthy. The Bulls’ departure opens guard minutes, but Ball’s history of limited games looms as a durability risk that could cap upside in fantasy and betting narratives this season.

Preseason optics have Ball distributing to a variety of Cavaliers, signaling a high-end ceiling if he can reach 60+ games. The move is framed as a possible catalyst for Cleveland’s title push, even as questions about routine workloads and health persist for fantasy managers and bettors alike.

Cavaliers beat Detroit 118-100 in the preseason as Atkinson nails his first win of the exhibition slate. Lonzo Ball flashed quick, fearless playmaking, dishing nine assists in 20 minutes and showing the vision Cleveland hopes to harness. De'Andre Hunter left the floor with a right knee contusion but expects to be ready for the Oct. 22 opener against New York. The offense still needs speed and decisiveness, but Ball's pass-first approach signals a higher ceiling for the Cavs.

The Pistons presented a test of versatility, while Cleveland leaned on Ball as a catalyst and continued to emphasize their cutting and driving principles. If Ball sustains this level of distribution and Hunter returns healthy, the Cavs could blend free-flow pace with defensive versatility into a productive early-season rhythm.