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Timberwolves Trade Naz Reid, Picks for LaMelo Ball

7/14/2026

Summary

LaMelo Ball Acquired

The Minnesota Timberwolves acquired guard LaMelo Ball from the Charlotte Hornets on June 25, 2026.
The trade sent Naz Reid, a 2033 pick and three other picks to Charlotte.
Ball averaged 20.1 points, 7.1 assists and 1.2 steals in 72 games.
Tim Connelly praised Ball as a real point guard and noted a health plan.
Coach Chris Finch said Ball can unlock Rudy Gobert and create catch-and-shoot chances for Anthony Edwards.

Summary

Peterson Resets

Jeff Peterson, the Hornets' general manager, said the July 10 four-team trade is intended to reset the franchise beyond a single star.
Charlotte traded LaMelo Ball to Minnesota and Miles Bridges to Phoenix, ending its recent core.
In return the Hornets received a 2033 first-round pick, Royce O’Neale, Grayson Allen, Kon Knueppel and rookie Brandon Miller.
Peterson emphasized the goal is to build a sustainable roster after a 44-win season, while retaining Naz Reid as a young cornerstone.

History

Historical Context

Since their 1988 expansion, the Charlotte Hornets have reshaped rosters through bold trades. In July 1996 the Hornets sent rookie Kobe Bryant to the Los Angeles Lakers for Vlade Divac, a move that preceded a franchise-record 54-win season. The June 25 2026 deal sending LaMelo Ball to the Minnesota Timberwolves for Naz Reid and picks echoes that pattern of leveraging star talent for long-term flexibility.

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LaMelo Ball Acquired

The Minnesota Timberwolves acquired guard LaMelo Ball from the Charlotte Hornets on June 25, 2026.
The trade sent Naz Reid, a 2033 pick and three other picks to Charlotte.
Ball averaged 20.1 points, 7.1 assists and 1.2 steals in 72 games.
Tim Connelly praised Ball as a real point guard and noted a health plan.
Coach Chris Finch said Ball can unlock Rudy Gobert and create catch-and-shoot chances for Anthony Edwards.

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