Raptors Reportedly Inquired About LaMelo Ball Over the Summer-What That Tells Us About Charlotte’s Future
LaMelo Ball may still be sidelined with another ankle injury, but his name continues to swirl in NBA trade conversations-and for good reason. According to league sources, the Toronto Raptors checked in on Ball’s availability during the offseason, exploring the possibility of a blockbuster move that would’ve significantly reshaped both franchises.
That interest, while not resulting in a deal, says a lot about where both teams are headed. The Hornets, sitting at 8-18 and 12th in the Eastern Conference, are once again facing the reality of a lost season. Meanwhile, the Raptors-off to a 16-11 start and holding down third place in the East-appear to be a team on the rise, and they’ve clearly been eyeing ways to level up.
Ironically, Ball was spotted running out of the tunnel with the Raptors before their December 5 matchup in Toronto-a moment that raised eyebrows before he injured his ankle later that night. He hasn’t played since.
Before the injury, Ball was putting up solid numbers across the board: 19.4 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game. His shooting splits-38.6% from the field, 28.5% from three, and 87.7% from the free-throw line-reflect both his offensive creativity and the ongoing inconsistency that’s followed him throughout his young career. At 24 years old and earning $37.9 million, Ball remains one of the more intriguing point guards in the league: a high-ceiling playmaker who’s still trying to put it all together while battling a string of lower-body injuries.
In the meantime, Charlotte’s rookie sensation Kon Knueppel is giving fans a reason to be excited. The Duke standout is off to a stellar start, averaging 19.0 points per game on efficient shooting-47.2% from the field, 40.5% from deep, and an elite 92.1% from the line. That kind of production from a rookie is rare, and it’s already sparking internal and external conversations about the Hornets’ long-term core.
With Knueppel and second-year forward Brandon Miller showing real promise, there’s growing chatter around the league that Charlotte might be better off pivoting to a rebuild centered on its young wings. That would mean exploring the trade market for Ball-and potentially Miles Bridges as well. Neither player has a no-trade clause, so the front office has flexibility if it decides to shift direction.
The Hornets haven’t made the playoffs since 2016 and have just one winning season since selecting Ball third overall in the 2020 draft. As much as Ball’s talent is undeniable, his availability has been a persistent issue. Foot and ankle injuries have plagued him throughout his career, limiting his ability to lead a franchise that’s been stuck in neutral for years.
That’s why the reported interest from teams like the Raptors-and potentially the Clippers, who are in need of a point guard and have ties to Ball’s California roots-feels more than speculative. There’s a real possibility Charlotte could field offers as the trade deadline approaches, especially if Ball returns to form once healthy.
For now, the Hornets are simply trying to get healthy and stay competitive in a crowded Eastern Conference. But with Knueppel emerging and the team still searching for a winning formula, don’t be surprised if Charlotte starts to take calls on its former franchise cornerstone. The future might belong to a new generation in Buzz City.