LaMelo Ball’s future in Charlotte is officially under a microscope.
A new report from Yahoo Sports’ Kelly Iko stated that the 24-year-old guard “has grown increasingly frustrated with the organization and is open to a trade away from the franchise.”
The report also claimed that the Hornets’ front office has become “increasingly hesitant” about treating Ball as a long-term centerpiece and is willing to listen to offers.
Shortly after the rumor circulated, Ball responded on social media with a single clown emoji posted under a screenshot of the report. He didn’t clarify whether he was dismissing the report entirely or reacting to how the story was framed.
Still, it was enough to raise questions about where the relationship between team and player actually stands.
This development lands during a rough stretch for Charlotte, who fell to 4–11 after a loss to the Pacers—a game in which Ball did not play the final 4:32. Injuries have continued to shape his season, as he has logged only nine games while dealing with a right ankle issue.
Despite the limited availability, Ball is averaging 21.6 points, 9.6 assists, and 6.9 rebounds. Any trade discussions would also have to factor in the contract he’s currently on, which pays him $37.9 million this season and more than $130 million over the next three years.
Even with his post, teams around the league are already being discussed as possible destinations. Brooklyn is one of the leading names. While the Nets don’t have a star to send back, they do have a significant number of future draft picks—something Charlotte is believed to value heavily if they pivot deeper into their rebuild. Ball’s comfort with big markets only adds fuel to the idea.
Memphis is another scenario floated due to its own uncertain situation at point guard. With Ja Morant available in only 59 total games across the last two seasons, the Grizzlies face major questions about their trajectory.
A theoretical Ball–Morant deal would be risky for both sides, but structurally possible: Charlotte would be betting on Morant returning to form, while Memphis would be exchanging volatility for a player who’s performed at an All-Star level when healthy.
Toronto presents a different angle. With a 10–5 start, the Raptors have been competitive but still lack the firepower needed for a deep playoff push.
Replacing Immanuel Quickley with Ball would create a core built around Ball, Scottie Barnes, and Brandon Ingram. It would require a package of assets and salary matching, but it’s one of the cleaner basketball fits among the early options.