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Timberwolves Acquire LaMelo Ball in Multi-Team Trade

8/20/2026

38 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Minnesota Timberwolves acquired guard LaMelo Ball from the Charlotte Hornets in a multi-team trade.
The deal sent Julius Randle, Naz Reid, a first-round pick and three second-round picks to Charlotte Hornets and Brooklyn Nets.
Coach Chris Finch faces power-forward rotation challenges after the front-court overhaul.
Analysts say the Anthony Edwards–LaMelo Ball backcourt is elite but exposes front-court depth worries.

History

Historical Context

In July 2007 the Celtics acquired Kevin Garnett in a 7-for-1 deal that sent Al Jefferson, Ryan Gomes and two first-round picks to Minnesota, the largest trade in history. Garnett’s arrival helped Boston win the 17th championship in 2008, and the 2024 Minnesota deal moving Julius Randle, Naz Reid and draft assets to Charlotte and Brooklyn echoes that strategy of swapping star power for depth.

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Story summary

The Minnesota Timberwolves acquired guard LaMelo Ball from the Charlotte Hornets in a multi-team trade.
The deal sent Julius Randle, Naz Reid, a first-round pick and three second-round picks to Charlotte Hornets and Brooklyn Nets.
Coach Chris Finch faces power-forward rotation challenges after the front-court overhaul.
Analysts say the Anthony Edwards–LaMelo Ball backcourt is elite but exposes front-court depth worries.

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