Why The Oklahoma City Thunder Do The Deal 

When the Thunder drafted Giddey, they must have envisioned a jumbo sized backcourt in pairing him with Gilgeous-Alexander. Acquiring Ball does nothing to move them from that vision 

After all, Ball, like Giddey, is 6’7. He’s also, like Giddey, an elite passer. With that said, that’s roughly where the comparisons end. 

Ball is a much more dynamic half court creator. That’s largely because he’s also a much better theee-point shooter. Giddey is an intriguing young player, but Ball is already a superstar. 

Adding him would be the finishing touch on the Thunder’s rebuilding process.

LATEST NBA NEWS& TRADE RUMORS: LaMelo Ball, Charlotte Hornets & Oklahoma City Thunder Updates

Following this deal, they’d have a longterm core to contend with between Gilgeous-Alexander, Ball, and Chet Holmgren. 

What does this trade leave the Hornets with?