Charlotte Hornets sign Coby White as new starting point guard after LaMelo Ball trade

The Charlotte Hornets have signed guard Coby White to a three‑year, $74 million contract, making him the team's primary point guard following the trade of LaMelo Ball to the Minnesota Timberwolves. White, formerly with the Chicago Bulls, was acquired by the Hornets in a deadline deal that sent Collin Sexton and three second‑round picks to Chicago.

The Ball trade returned Naz Reid, a backup big man, and an unprotected draft pick seven years out, which analysts described as a modest return for a franchise‑player. The Hornets finished the season with a franchise‑best 44 wins, the best record in about a decade, and were 28‑10 in the second half, underscoring Ball's on‑court impact despite lingering health concerns and criticism of his play.

By extending White, the Hornets aim to fill the vacancy at point guard, with additional depth from Tre Mann and Pat Connaughton while continuing to evaluate further roster moves.