The 2025-26 NBA season has taken off, and trade rumors have quickly followed. Currently ranked 12th in the Eastern Conference, the Charlotte Hornets — and star guard LaMelo Ball — have been at the center of the speculation.
And while Ball has addressed the viral trade rumors himself, there are still reports shedding light on the situation in Charlotte. In fact, some indicate that the Hornets and Ball might not be on the same page.
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NBA Insider Further Aggravates LaMelo Ball-Charlotte Hornets Trade Saga
During a Friday livestream, NBA insider Jake Fischer offered his perspective on the situation, noting that while Ball and the team appear to be working toward a resolution, the Hornets may not have entirely ruled out the possibility of trading their franchise player.
“The Hornets have definitely given other teams the impression they will listen to offers for him,” Fischer said.
The Hornets will listen to trade offers for LaMelo Ball, per @JakeLFischer
“The Hornets have definitely given other teams the impression they will listen to offers for him.”
(h/t @RealGM) pic.twitter.com/DiO49SceFk
— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) November 22, 2025
The discrepancy among reports has raised questions about their accuracy, leaving fans uncertain about the situation. At the same time, some fans have expressed enthusiasm at the possibility.
The Portland Trail Blazers, the LA Clippers, the Miami Heat, and the Dallas Mavericks are other teams reportedly linked to Ball.
Appearing in only nine games this season, Ball has been averaging 21.6 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 9.6 assists per game while shooting 38.5% from the field. The six-year veteran is often viewed as a valuable asset to any team, with many analysts and fans connecting him to a city with better opportunities.
But Ball has remained loyal to Charlotte, trying to help the team gain momentum over the years.
Ball Denied Any Trade Rumors After Recent Report Went Viral
On Thursday, a Yahoo Sports report suggested the Hornets’ front office is looking to move Ball.
However, Ball himself was quick to shut down the rumors, saying: “(The reporter) never heard that come from me, so the source is not from me. So it’s false info. I gotta let him know. I really don’t like commenting back on stuff, but when it gets too big, you (have) got to do something.”
Loyal fans seemed satisfied with Ball’s answer, while others wondered if there was something better waiting for the 24-year-old.
With a 4-12 record, the Hornets will play the Atlanta Hawks next on Sunday, Nov. 23.