Full Breakdown
LaMelo Ball Trade: Hornets Send Guard to Timberwolves in Multi-Asset Deal
6/25/2026, 7:56:52 PM
Trade Overview
On June 25, 2026 the Charlotte Hornets traded guard LaMelo Ball and guard Josh Green to the Minnesota Timberwolves. Minnesota returned forward Naz Reid, an unprotected 2033 first-round pick, first-round pick swaps for 2028-2030, and second-round picks in 2029, 2032 and 2033. The deal was first reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Key Figures & Assets
The Hornets receive Naz Reid, a 2033 unprotected first-round pick, three first-round swap rights (2028-2030) and three second-round picks (2029, 2032, 2033). The trade creates a $40.7 million trade exception, the league’s largest.
Timeline
- June 25, 2026: Trade reported.
- July 6, 2026: Trade finalized after the NBA moratorium; Ball becomes eligible for a two-year $119.2 million extension.
Data & Statistics
Ball posted 20.1 points, 7.1 assists and 4.8 rebounds in 72 games (272 threes, 36.8 %). Reid averaged 13.6 points, 6.2 rebounds and 2.2 assists in 77 games and was a former Sixth Man of the Year. Ball’s contract runs through 2028-29 with salaries of $40.7 M, $43.5 M and $46.3 M; Reid is under contract through 2028-29 with a 2029-30 player option.
Official Statements & Responses
Brian Windhorst said the trade “is a move to get (Anthony) Edwards the kind of backcourt running mate he needs.” Marc Stein reported “Minnesota’s interest … is undeniably serious.” Coach Charles Lee said his goal for 2026-27 is to return Charlotte to the playoffs.
Criticism & Opposition
Zach Roberts called the deal “a franchise-destroying move,” and Schuyler Callihan called it “a terrible deal for Charlotte,” arguing it sacrifices a franchise-level scorer for modest return.
Why It Matters / Impact
Minnesota adds a high-scoring point guard to pair with Anthony Edwards, lifting its 2027 title odds from +3500 to +2200, but loses front-court depth after also moving Julius Randle. Charlotte gains a reliable big man in Reid, significant draft capital and a large trade exception, allowing a roster reset around Kon Knueppel, Brandon Miller and Coby White.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Ball’s contract is listed as $203.9 million in some reports and $260 million in others. The trade exception is cited as $40.8 million by one source and $40.7 million by another. Details of any four-team component with the Chicago Bulls remain unconfirmed.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This is a move to get (Anthony) Edwards the kind of backcourt running mate he needs,” — Brian Windhorst, NBA analyst
- “Minnesota's interest, sources tell The Stein Line , is undeniably serious,” — Marc Stein, NBA reporter
- “— Keith Smith (@KeithSmithNBA) June 25, 2026 If one thing is for sure, the Bulls would be wise to pick up the phone and offer up their services.” — Keith Smith, NBA analyst (Twitter)
- “This is a franchise-destroying move.” — Zach Roberts, NBA writer
What’s Next
Charlotte is expected to re-sign Coby White and may use the $40.7 million exception to add a veteran. Minnesota must decide on Ball’s extension and address front-court depth before free agency.
