A potential reunion of the Ball brothers may be on the horizon, as trade discussions have emerged linking veteran guard Lonzo Ball to the Charlotte Hornets. Reports from Marc Stein and Jake Fischer outline that initial talks have occurred between the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Hornets regarding the possibility of trading Ball in exchange for second-round draft picks.
The Hornets, alongside teams like the Brooklyn Nets and the Utah Jazz, are reportedly exploring multi-team trades aimed at acquiring draft picks while managing salary exchanges. If the trade proceeds, Lonzo would join his younger brother, LaMelo Ball, who has been a key player for the Hornets since being drafted third overall in 2020.
In recent days, the Cavaliers have also been involved in various trade speculations, including a report that they considered sending guard Darius Garland to the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for James Harden. Cleveland has already made a significant move by trading forward De’Andre Hunter to the Sacramento Kings for guards Dennis Schröder and Keon Ellis, hinting at a new direction for the team’s backcourt.
Lonzo Ball, now in his seventh NBA season, joined the Cavaliers after being traded from the Chicago Bulls in the offseason. The former No. 2 overall pick in the 2017 NBA draft has faced injury challenges, missing the entire 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons due to knee issues before returning to play 35 games last season. Currently, Ball is on track to match his games played in a single season since the 2020-21 campaign, having featured in 35 games this season.
Despite his career-low production rates—averaging 4.6 points, 4.0 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.3 steals, and 1.1 three-pointers in 20.8 minutes—Ball remains a valuable playmaker and defender. His shooting percentages may be low, yet there is potential for growth and revitalization in a new environment.
Should a trade to Charlotte materialize, Ball would join a Hornets team struggling at 11th in the Eastern Conference with a 23-28 record, having not reached the playoffs since 2016. This raises questions about his role on the team, given the Hornets’ focus on developing younger talent. Furthermore, Ball’s contract includes a club option for next season, meaning he could become a free agent if that option is not picked up.
In summary, the prospect of Lonzo Ball reuniting with his brother LaMelo in Charlotte brings a mix of excitement and uncertainty. While the trade remains speculative, it presents an opportunity for both brothers to collaborate on the court, possibly reigniting Ball’s impact in the NBA.