The Charlotte Hornets have traded franchise star LaMelo Ball to the Minnesota Timberwolves. Rumors of a possible trade had already been circulating last night.
Just a few hours after the 2026 NBA Draft, the Charlotte Hornets pulled the trigger. As reported by ESPN insider Shams Charania, the Hornets have reached an agreement with the Minnesota Timberwolves and are sending the point guard up north. In addition to Ball, guard Josh Green is also heading to Minnesota, which, in return, is sending big man Naz Reid, a first-round pick, three pick swaps, and three second-round picks to Charlotte.
Hornets Weigh Their Options
Ball has played for Charlotte since 2020, when they selected him with the third overall pick in the draft, and quickly became the face of the franchise. The former Rookie of the Year made his first All-Star appearance in 2022 and played in 72 games last season. The point guard averaged 20.1 points and 7.1 assists.
Despite his individual achievements, the team has yet to achieve significant success. Although the Hornets played a strong second half of the season after the turn of the year, they subsequently fell to the Orlando Magic in the play-in tournament. With Ball, the Hornets did not make the playoffs even once, but instead fell short three times in the play-in.
Anderson Could Benefit
For Christian Anderson, Ball’s departure could change the situation. The guard was selected by Charlotte with the 18th pick in the NBA Draft and was initially viewed as a potential backup behind the former All-Star.
If Ball leaves, it would create a much bigger hole in the Hornets’ backcourt. While team officials are still hoping to extend Coby White’s contract, Anderson’s path to playing time could become significantly easier. General Manager Jeff Peterson had already described the German as one of the best pick-and-roll players in the draft.
