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Hornets Star Ball Open to Trade Amidst Struggles
21 Nov
Summary
- LaMelo Ball reportedly frustrated with Hornets organization.
- Charlotte hesitant to commit to Ball as a long-term cornerstone.
- Several NBA teams identified as potential trade suitors.
The Charlotte Hornets are experiencing another difficult start to their season, with their current record standing at 4-11. Amidst these struggles, star player LaMelo Ball has reportedly grown frustrated with the organization. Sources suggest he is open to a trade, and the Hornets have not actively pushed back against this possibility, indicating their own uncertainty about Ball as a cornerstone for the future.
The implications of a Ball trade are significant, given his five-year, $203 million contract signed in 2023. Any acquiring team would inherit salary obligations exceeding $40 million per season through 2029, with increasing cap hits. This financial commitment, coupled with NBA trade regulations, makes any potential deal complex.
Several teams are being considered as aggressive suitors, including the Toronto Raptors, Utah Jazz, Miami Heat, Brooklyn Nets, and Memphis Grizzlies. These teams possess varying combinations of cap space, draft capital, and tradeable assets that could facilitate a move for Ball, potentially offering both the Hornets and Ball a fresh start.
