Hornets Shop 23-Year-Old LaMelo Ball as Timberwolves, Raptors Chase Trade

3 articles · Updated · CBS Sports · Jun 25

Charlotte is actively gauging the market for LaMelo Ball despite his desire to stay, a surprise move after the Hornets' late-season surge left them one Play-In win short of the playoffs.
Three years remain on Ball's max rookie extension, but his injury history looms large—he played 72 games last season after appearing in only 105 across the previous three years.
Minnesota and Toronto are among the known pursuers, with the Timberwolves reportedly serious but facing roster-fit and asset hurdles around Rudy Gobert, Naz Reid and limited draft flexibility.
Toronto offers a cleaner on-court fit and controls its future picks, though matching Ball's salary could force Charlotte to absorb unwanted contracts and demand a steeper return.
The Hornets' recent additions at point guard and Brandon Miller's expected payday suggest Charlotte may be trying to sell high on Ball before a bigger long-term financial commitment.