When an NBA player misses time, they may get rusty. If they’re talented enough, they ought to shake off the rust. It may be painful to watch, but in time, they ought to round back into form. Charlotte Hornets fans are certainly hoping that will be the case.
After all, LaMelo Ball is struggling badly so far in 2023-24. That isn’t his fault. Ball missed a large portion of last season due to injury. Still, this is a concern.
Ball has looked like a superstar throughout his entire NBA career. This year, he doesn’t even look like a starting-caliber player at times.
What will the Hornets do? In all likelihood, they’ll give Ball time. On the other hand, if they continue losing throughout the season, something may have to give. Could they send Ball to the Utah Jazz?
NBA Trade Proposal — Utah Jazz Land LaMelo Ball
Charlotte Hornets Receive: F/C John Collins, G Collin Sexton, G/F Talen Horton-Tucker, 2025 First-Round Pick (MIN via UTA), 2027 First-Round Pick (MIN via UTA), 2028 First-Round Pick (UTA)
Utah Jazz Receive: G LaMelo Ball
On the other hand, careers unfold in all sorts of unpredictable ways. We hate to say this, but it’s possible that Ball’s last injury robbed something from him. Sometimes, players decline before we’d like them to. Other times, the opposite occurs. A player can take an unexpected star turn.
Look at Lauri Markkanen of the Jazz. Last season, he was past the point where we expect a player to emerge. At that point, Markkanen was who he was. This was a solid stretch big man, but he wasn’t going to be making any All-NBA appearances.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: LaMelo Ball, Charlotte Hornets, Utah Jazz Updates
Yet, that’s exactly what Markkanen did. Now, he’s one of the best forwards in the NBA. Yet, the Jazz are well outside of the playoff picture.
Should they take a risk on Ball?
Why The Utah Jazz Do The Deal
In all likelihood, Ball will return to form. It’s not guaranteed, but it’s more likely than not that what he’s currently experiencing is rust. It’s doubtful that Ball has declined in any kind of permanent way.
So, the Jazz would be wise to invest in him. This is a talented team. Markkanen is a star, and Walker Kessler is a strong defensive anchor.
Kelly Olynyk and Jordan Clarkson are quality rotation pieces. Yet, this team doesn’t have a lead guard. Ball is a lead guard. He could turn the Jazz into title hopefuls in a matter of years.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: LaMelo Ball, Charlotte Hornets, Utah Jazz Updates
If the Jazz want to make a risky gamble on an all-in move, Ball would be an ideal target. Should the Hornets really part with their franchise player?
Why The Charlotte Hornets Do The Deal
We’re probably delving into fantasy here. The Hornets are likely sticking with Ball. They probably should, too. At the same time, humor us. Let us play devil’s advocate. Why would the Hornets trade Ball?
Well, it’s been suggesting that he’s been unhappy in Charlotte anyway. We don’t know if that’s true, but if the Hornets keep losing games this season, it’s only more likely to become the case.
The writing may be on the wall here. The Hornets could decide to commit another rebuild to Brandon Miller. If so, flipping Ball for draft capital makes sense.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: LaMelo Ball, Charlotte Hornets, Utah Jazz Updates
Here, they’re landing three unprotected first-round picks. Even if Ball eventually shakes off the rust, that’s enough for them to move forward with.
