If LaMelo Ball were to have his way, he would remain with the Charlotte Hornets beyond the coming offseason. The star said so during the exit interviews, stating that he had heard the talks that he should ask for a trade and emphasizing his desire to stay in Charlotte.
Still, only time will tell if the Hornets will reciprocate his feelings. The team exploring trade options for Ball continues to be a possibility, as is consummating a deal that would help it land more assets amid its rebuild.
However, the point guard could only probably hope that if he gets shipped, he would be sent to a contender. After all, why would he want to go from one lottery squad to another? Unfortunately, Charlotte might not have many options as trade partners that are a few pieces away from being serious challengers for the Larry O'Brien Trophy.
Magic have been brought up as a possible trade destination for Ball
The Orlando Magic appear to be the most plausible suitor that can give Ball the chance to advance deep in the postseason. Charlotte's division rival has reached the playoffs for the consecutive year, although it is expected to bow out of the first round again. While it gave the Cleveland Cavaliers a huge scare in 2024, pushing the series to seven games, Orlando will likely be eliminated more quickly this time around, as it is battling the defending champs, the Boston Celtics.
The Magic have assembled a solid roster that has had opponents struggling to rack up points. They have a major flaw on offense, though, as they have relied on Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner to create shots for the team.
Ball could definitely be the solution to their playmaking woes. The problem is that Charlotte might not be too thrilled to accept a trade package that the Magic would be willing to offer unless they are ready to part ways with Wagner and at least three first-round picks. The Hornets would need Orlando to be desperate enough to craft a package equivalent to the 2021 Rookie of the Year's value.
Other contending organizations in need of a point guard could also send Buzz City some feelers in the summer if Melo becomes available.
The Miami Heat come to mind, although Charlotte has plenty of incentive not to help them. With Miami making it to the playoffs, it owes the Hornets a lottery-protected 2027 first-round pick that would convey to an unprotected first the following year if it misses the 2027 playoffs. The Houston Rockets are also an elite point guard away from making some serious noise in the postseason. However, they seem to be locked in on pursuing Kevin Durant in the summer.
For now, the most logical route for the Hornets is to retain Ball and see how well they can keep up with the rest of the league after adding what would hopefully be a game-changing rookie, tweaking the roster, and waiting on key players to return to full health. But don't be surprised if the front office decides to move on from its best player a few months from now.