The debate on whether LaMelo Ball will stay with the Charlotte Hornets long-term will likely persist for a while. For now, though, the team has little incentive to trade him because, whether fans like it or not, his current value isn't that high due to his injury history.
According to Tim Bontemps of ESPN, the Hornets should not even contemplate whether they should put Ball on the block until he can show he is capable of playing at least 70 games. Per the sportswriter, Charlotte likely wouldn't be able to land a trade package commensurate with the star's real worth if he cannot get a clean bill of health.
The question is what kind of return should the Hornets seek if they decide that shipping Ball is in their best interest. Considering that the New York Knicks and Orlando Magic gave up multiple first-round picks to acquire Mikal Bridges and Desmond Bane, respectively, Charlotte must hunt for a similar haul.
However, other teams would likely balk at such an asking price unless they can be assured that the 2021 Rookie of the Year would be available to suit up nearly every contest. Notably, he had played in just 105 out of a possible 246 regular-season matches, equivalent to 42.7 percent, over the past three seasons. So, if he continues to sit out a significant number of games, he won't be able to command a trade package that the Hornets would deem acceptable.
Hornets are dreaming of a healthy and winning LaMelo Ball
Of course, landing often on the injury report is hardly Ball's only ticket to remain in Charlotte. A better reason for his prolonged stay in the Queen City is his transformation into the franchise's savior. And the only path to see that come to fruition is for the point guard to avoid getting stung by the injury bug, increasing his efficiency in shooting and handling the ball, and blossoming into a more reliable leader.
That would be easier said than done for the budding superstar, although he appears to be well-equipped to turn things around. He possesses the skills and charisma to establish his place at the top of the Hornets' hierarchy definitively. With arguably the strongest roster he has been around with in Charlotte, Ball is in a great position to silence the critics and help the Hornets start moving past their rebuilding phase.
Perhaps the heaviest challenge for Melo is keeping his body in good shape. Hopefully, he has found a way to prevent his recurring injuries and get his physical health in optimal condition.