The LaMelo Ball trade rumors are heating up, and the Charlotte Hornets star wants the NBA world to know that recent reports aren’t true.
The star guard took to the social media platform X on Thursday to react to a recent report that suggested he was growing “increasingly frustrated” with the Hornets and is now “open to a trade.”
Ball didn’t have much to say, but the emoji made his thoughts clear.
What’s the Word on Ball?
According to Yahoo Sports’ Kelly Iko, multiple sources behind the scenes have suggested that Ball would welcome a trade away from the only NBA franchise he’s ever known.
As far as the organization’s stance goes, Iko reports that the Hornets are hesitant about “cementing Ball as a long-term foundational piece.” Since Ball joined the Hornets, he’s battled through plenty of injuries, and the organization hasn’t taken a step towards becoming a playoff contender in the Eastern Conference.
This year, Ball has appeared in nine games for the Hornets. Seeing the court for 31.3 minutes per game, he has knocked down just 38 percent of his shots from the field and hit on 29 percent of his threes to produce 21.6 points per game. He’s nearly averaging a double-double by dishing out 9.6 assists per game.
Since making the NBA’s All-Star game in 2022, Ball has gone three seasons without returning. In 240 career games, the star guard has posted averages of 21.1 points, 7.5 assists, and 6.0 rebounds.
Although there might be some uncertainty about Ball’s future in Charlotte, the former lottery pick would certainly generate a crowded market of suitors if the Hornets decide to work the phones for a potential trade.
For all the latest NBA news and rumors, head over to Newsweek Sports.