The Charlotte Hornets are in a good spot right now, but they could still benefit from acquiring a backup point guard. Lonzo Ball might be available at a discount. Perhaps it's time for the Hornets to make a call to the Cleveland Cavaliers to inquire about LaMelo Ball's big brother.
The Cavs have just made a seismic move, trading for highly coveted guard Keon Ellis and wily veteran Dennis Schroder in a three-team deal with the Sacramento Kings and Chicago Bulls. It's unclear if they plan on holding onto Schroder or ship him elsewhere for better financial flexibility. Either way, that could mean Lonzo Ball's time in Cleveland is donezo. Another trade could be coming, and the Hornets should at least do their due diligence.
How would Zo fit in CLT?
It has become quite evident that Buzz City needs another playmaker, as its offense significantly slips when LaMelo Ball is off the floor. The only solution might be to explore the trade market. Collin Sexton turns the ball over too much, while Sion James is not a natural point guard. Brandon Miller, Kon Knueppel, and Miles Bridges have sometimes done well as the initiator on offense when Melo is on the bench, but it might be better for the team to play the starters together.
Lonzo Ball could give them a proven playmaker who can defend the point of attack. He has always looked to set up his teammates, even to a fault at times. On defense, he can still perform solidly, although the injuries that he has experienced throughout his career appear to be taking a toll on him.
The problem is that he has never been an efficient scorer in his career. This season, he has had it worst, shooting just 29.9 percent from the field and 26.9 percent from 3-point range.
So, it's understandable if Hornets fans feel uneasy about the idea of adding a rotation piece who could disrupt their surging offense instead of helping it. On the other hand, the system Charles Lee has established might allow Lonzo Ball to thrive more.
Keeping it in the family
Another reason to consider a trade for the veteran is its potential impact on LaMelo Ball. The Ball brothers are known to be quite close with each other, and having them play on the same side could work wonders for their spirits and productivity.
Of course, the downside to it is that their father, LaVar, could insert himself into the equation and urge the organization to bring back the middle child, LiAngelo, to complete the set.
Joking aside, trading for Lonzo Ball and his affordable contract that comes with a team option for next season could be a low-risk maneuver for Charlotte. The Cavs' leverage in trade discussions may have dipped after they added his replacement first, and they are likely going to want to use his roster spot on a more serviceable player in anticipation of a deep playoff run. Maybe a second-round pick or two can do the trick for the Hornets.