Sources: Charlotte Hornets star LaMelo Ball could be on the move
LaMelo Ball could be on the move and headed across the border.
The Charlotte Hornets have explored the trade market for their star point guard, league sources confirmed to The Charlotte Observer. The Toronto Raptors are among the most aggressive teams in pursuit of Ball and have targeted him for a number of seasons, sources told The Observer.
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Charlotte would surely be seeking a lucrative package of players and picks for Ball, who’s easily one of the most popular players in franchise history among the fans.
Ball, who’s eligible for a contract extension this summer, is scheduled to earn $40.7 million in 2026-27, which is the third season of five-year, $208.3 million deal. He’s happy in Charlotte and intended to be here long-term, sources said.
However, it appears Ball’s time may be nearing an end.
Since entering the league in 2020, it’s been a struggle for Ball to stay healthy as he’s dealt with ankle issues. But it wasn’t the case this past season, when he logged action in 72 games, and helped spur the Hornets to a berth in the NBA’s play-in tournament.
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That’s the most he’s played following his All-Star year in 2021-22.
Ball finished second in the NBA in made 3-pointers with 272, trailing only teammate Kon Knueppel. He also ranked ninth in the league in assists per game at 7.1.
If Ball is traded, it paves the way for Coby White to step into the starting role. White is an unrestricted free agent and Jeff Peterson, the Hornets’ president of basketball operations, has mentioned he’s “a priority” re-signing.
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