The worst part of the NBA is injuries. We’ve seen promising careers derailed by a player’s body. Sometimes, there’s simply nothing they can do about it.
Hopefully, that isn’t the case for Lonzo Ball of the Chicago Bulls. it might be. Ball has been on the shelf for the better part of two seasons. He may never be the same again.
With that in mind, his trade value is likely to be low. Still, some team could take a buy-low opportunity on him. If that team was built around his brother, they may be inclined to acquire Ball. Could the Charlotte Hornets make a move for him?
The Trade Proposal
Chicago Bulls Receive: F Gordon Hayward, 2026 First-Round Pick (Lottery Protected – CHA)
Charlotte Hornets Receive: G Lonzo Ball, F Patrick Williams
Is there a genetic problem with the Ball brothers? We hope not. Still, it’s worth noting that Lonzo isn’t the only player who can’t seem to stay on the floor. In 2023-24, LaMelo Ball has been frequently injured as well.
The Hornets have struggled as a result. In fact, they’ve been one of the worst teams in the NBA. That doesn’t mean that the future is entirely bleak for the Hornets. Rookie Brandon Miller has flashed immense potential in 2023-24.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Lonzo Ball, Chicago Bulls, Charlotte Hornets Updates
If Ball can’t get healthy, it may not matter. There are both reasons to be optimistic and pessimistic about the Hornets. Does this deal improve their outlook?
Why The Charlotte Hornets Do The Deal
Realistically, the Hornets do this deal for Williams above all else. He’s another player who’s prone to getting injured. Still, when healthy, he’s exactly the type of 3-and-D wing that this team could use.
Yet, there’s some appeal in trying to pair the Ball brothers. They’d surely have unique chemistry on the floor. In fact, Lonzo could be a perfect compliment to LaMelo. The last time we saw him healthy, he was an elite 3-and-D guard who could offer some secondary playmaking as well.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Lonzo Ball, Chicago Bulls, Charlotte Hornets Updates
Finally, there’s even some benefit in surrendering this lottery protected first. The Hornets are giving themselves a deadline. If they haven’t shaped up by 2026, they’ll probably be looking at some more sweeping changes. Should the Bulls accept that pick for Ball and Williams?
Why The Chicago Bulls Do The Deal
The Bulls have got to do something. Zach LaVine’s trade value was already low. Now that he’s suffered a season-ending injury, he’ll be difficult to move. Again – injuries are the worst part of the NBA.
Yet, the Bulls have to make some changes. This team is stuck in mediocrity. The Bulls could even entertain moving a quality young player like Williams at the right price.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Lonzo Ball, Chicago Bulls, Charlotte Hornets Updates
A lottery protected first ought to entice them. Meanwhile, they’d clear considerable cap space by flipping Ball for Hayward’s expiring deal. In the meantime, the Hornets could only hope that Ball can get healthy.
