Charles Lee says the Hornets’ decision to move LaMelo Ball didn’t blindside him.
In his first public comments since Charlotte dealt Ball, Lee told Roderick Boone of the Charlotte Observer that the trade fit the way the organization operates behind the scenes. The Hornets sent Ball and Josh Green to the Minnesota Timberwolves in exchange for Naz Reid, a 2033 unprotected first-round pick, three future first-round pick swaps and three future second-round picks.
“Yeah, I would say I was not caught off guard by it,” Lee said. “I think one of the great things about our organization is that there’s always really good communication amongst all departments and groups. And I think that’s what Jeff does so well, is that he wants to communicate and collaborate with people.
“And ultimately, he has to make some tough decisions to help our basketball team and our organization be in the best place to flourish and try to be the premier sports franchise.”
Ball’s run in Charlotte ended without a playoff appearance. Over 303 games with the Hornets, he averaged 20.8 points and 7.3 assists, earned one All-Star nod in 2022 and won the 2020-21 Rookie of the Year Award.
Lee also spoke about what Ball meant to the group he coached.
“I think that Melo made great strides over the two years that I’ve gotten to coach him,” Lee said. “He and I were able to build a really good relationship, I think, on the court and off the court. He helped us not only win games but also just create an environment that’s about work, competitiveness and togetherness.”
Charlotte is expected to roll out Coby White, Brandon Miller, Kon Knueppel, Reid and Moussa Diabaté as its starting five next season.
On paper, that’s a strong-looking group. It also means Reid is set to become a starter for the first time in his NBA career. The 2023-24 Sixth Man of the Year Award winner enters next season with career averages of 11.9 points, 5.1 rebounds and 1.5 assists in the regular season, along with 10.6 points, 4.8 rebounds and 1.4 assists in the playoffs.
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