LaMelo Ball, the Charlotte Hornets’ star point guard, has publicly expressed his desire to remain with the team, despite ongoing trade rumors. The 24-year-old will carry a $5.4 million cap hit through the 2029-30 season. He’s clearly committed to the cause of placing together the most successful unit possible in Charlotte. Ball still has a bit more than $168 million remaining on his contract, with $37.9 million this season alone. He wants to do his part to try and help the team win more games as they look ahead.
Ball’s commitment is particularly noteworthy, as the 6-6 sophomore is averaging 21.6 points and 9.6 assists per game this season. His time in the league thus far has been marred by injuries. In reality, he’s only suited up for 231 of 410 contests through those initial five campaigns. Part of that has been due to his shooting just nine games this season because of a lingering right ankle sprain that’s mucked up his availability.
Despite these growing pains, Ball still has plenty of reasons to be hopeful about his long-term home with the Hornets. He took the initiative to quash rumors of a possible trade before they could build traction. He needed to get out in front of those rumors before they blew up.
“When they get too big, you know, you gotta say something,” – LaMelo Ball
He reiterated that any talk about his future is coming from outside of him.
“He never heard that come from me, so the source is not from me,” – LaMelo Ball
His comments indicate a desire to continue to avoid letting attention turn away from basketball and to off-court distractions. “I ain’t saying nothing. I’m just trying to win, that’s it. That’s what we’re going to keep doing,” he asserted.
LaMelo was the third overall pick of the 2020 NBA Draft and earned rookie of the year honors, becoming an immediate franchise cornerstone. His enthusiasm for doing so, and for continuing his career with the Hornets, is infectious, and within the organization, it shows. Charles Lee, associate head coach and member of the coaching staff, echoed Ball’s feelings, defending his player.
“I’m glad to hear what he had to say because I would echo a lot of the same things,” – Charles Lee
As the season progresses, LaMelo’s performance will play a crucial role in shaping the Hornets’ trajectory. As long as he’s able to stay healthy and continue being productive on an every-down basis, he should greatly improve the team’s prospect.
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