Timberwolves trade for LaMelo Ball, pairing him with Anthony Edwards

The Minnesota Timberwolves completed a blockbuster trade to acquire point guard LaMelo Ball, sending Naz Reid, a first‑round draft pick and other assets to the Charlotte Hornets. Ball joins former No. 1 pick Anthony Edwards in Minnesota's backcourt, creating a duo that former NBA champion Kendrick Perkins called “the best backcourt in the NBA.”

Analysts say Ball’s elite playmaking should free Edwards from heavy defensive focus, allowing him to work more off‑ball and increase his scoring opportunities. Edwards, who averaged a career‑high 28.8 points last season, could see his average rise toward 30 points per game, while his catch‑and‑shoot three‑point efficiency may improve as Ball generates better looks for shooters.