LaMelo Ball trade rumors: Ranking the T'Wolves among 5 best fits for the Hornets guard

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The Charlotte Hornets are (apparently) officially open for business, and the rapidly escalating LaMelo Ball trade sweepstakes have seemingly come out of nowhere but appear very real and rapidly evolving. After battling several injuries in recent years, Ball, who has played at an All-Star caliber level when healthy, was a key part of the team's play-in tournament victory over the Miami Heat last season. Regardless, it appears the Hornets front office is strongly considering hitting the reset button, which may include parting ways with its 24-year-old franchise point guard, as ESPN's Shams Charania reported.

Ball has flashed elite court vision, limitless range and the type of dynamic playmaking that'll spark interest across the NBA. While evaluating potential fits is one thing, several teams have already emerged as frontrunners to acquire Ball via trade, and we're going to break down the five most likely fits following the news just after the 2026 NBA Draft.

Minnesota Timberwolves & Toronto Raptors


Following the initial report of trade talks involving Ball picking up steam, longtime NBA insiders Marc Stein and Jake Fischer reported that two teams have already emerged in conversations. This includes the Minnesota Timberwolves and Toronto Raptors.


The Timberwolves and Raptors have emerged as two of the teams with trade interest in Charlotte’s LaMelo Ball, league sources tell @JakeLFischer and me.

More to come … pic.twitter.com/Sf5Ik7vAj2

— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) June 25, 2026

Memphis Grizzlies​


I'd consider the Grizzlies to be a dark horse here a bit. However, the situation involving Ja Morant and his future being up in the air is an intriguing piece to discuss. The conversations surrounding Morant's future have been quiet of late, but many still expect him to be moved. Even if the Grizzlies weren't swapping Morant for Ball, if they were to make the move and acquire him, it'd signal the end of Morant's time in Memphis.

Other potential fits for Ball:


This article originally appeared on For The Win: LaMelo Ball trade rumors: T'Wolves headline 5 best fits

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