Hornets can keep LaMelo Ball happy if recent Lonzo Ball speculation proves true

Charlotte Hornets, LaMelo Ball, Lonzo Ball
Charlotte Hornets, LaMelo Ball, Lonzo Ball | David Banks-Imagn Images

There have been speculations about Lonzo Ball's future with the Chicago Bulls. With the team likely going on full rebuild mode and the veteran point guard on a very movable contract, chances of him changing sides this summer are likely. The Charlotte Hornets should certainly try exploring the possibility of trading for him, which should give LaMelo Ball another reason to be happy to stay in North Carolina.

First off, it should be noted that there aren't definitive rumors of Lonzo Ball parting ways with Chicago. There are speculations, though, that such a scenario would unfold in the offseason, given the circumstances surrounding the Bulls. They have more vets on fat contracts than promising young players and only an early elimination in the play-in tournament this year to show for it.

So, maybe the Hornets should try offering some of their second-round picks for Lonzo Ball. If it gives the youngest Ball sibling added motivation to work on his game and, more importantly, his health, the assets they would give up are going to be worth it.

The idea of bringing in the eldest Ball brother is intriguing

There is a caveat, though. It hasn't been that long since Zo suggested that Charlotte should ship LaMelo Ball to the LA Clippers and find a way to draft and build the roster around Dylan Harper. Maybe the Ball family has an agenda, as its patriarch, LaVar, also once shared his vision of seeing all of his sons play together on the Clippers.

LaVar Ball can still see a part of his wish come true if the Hornets consider adding Lonzo Ball. Aside from the potential move's likely positive impact on LaMelo Ball, it could also address some of their shortcomings, including the lack of playmaking, bench scoring, and point-of-attack defenders. It would also be interesting to see the brothers run the break and push the pace whenever possible.

Of course, the downside is that trading for Lonzo would bring in another injury-prone player, and Hornets fans are probably tired of seeing plenty of names on the injury list every game day. Keep in mind that the former No. 2 pick made just 35 appearances each in the 2021-22 and 2024-25 campaigns and missed the entire two seasons in between.

Charlotte will have to decide sometime soon whether LaMelo Ball is a part of their future. For now, though, he remains a Hornet and arguably their best player. So, the organization must do everything it can to ensure its star's happiness.