Minnesota Timberwolves acquire LaMelo Ball in trade with Charlotte Hornets

The Charlotte Hornets have agreed to trade point guard LaMelo Ball and backup wing Josh Green to the Minnesota Timberwolves. In return, Charlotte will receive forward Naz Reid, an unprotected 2033 first‑round draft pick, first‑round pick swaps for 2028, 2029 and 2030, and second‑round selections in 2029, 2032 and 2033.

The deal marks a strategic shift for both franchises. Minnesota adds a premier playmaker to complement Anthony Edwards and bolster its backcourt, while Charlotte gains a reliable front‑court player in Reid and a deep cache of future draft assets, giving it flexibility to rebuild around younger pieces such as Brandon Miller, Kon Knueppel and emerging guards. The trade also generates a $40.7 million trade exception for the Hornets, expanding their options in the upcoming free‑agency market.