Chicago and Cleveland agreed to the trade for Lonzo Ball on June 28, but it didn’t become official until the start of the new league year.

If not for a two-year absence tied to a knee injury and complications from surgery, Lonzo Ball would likely be entering the prime of his NBA career. Instead, the former No. 2 overall pick said he is thankful to be playing at all.

Traded to a title contender after years of setbacks, the Cavaliers' newest guard calls it 'a blessing' and is ready to chase a ring.