Hornets trade – Charlotte sends LaMelo Ball and Josh Green to Minnesota in exchange for Naz Reid and a package of draft picks, with pick swaps set for 2028-2030. The move reshapes the Hornets’ direction while pairing Ball with Anthony Edwards in Minnesota.
By 14:35 BST on 25 June 2026, the Charlotte Hornets had already moved the center of their roster—LaMelo Ball—toward the Minnesota Timberwolves in what’s being described as a blockbuster NBA trade.
The deal sends star guard LaMelo Ball to Minnesota. Charlotte is also trading away Josh Green. In return, the Timberwolves give up Naz Reid and a collection of draft picks.
The Hornets’ return is built around long-range value: Charlotte will receive a 2033 unprotected first-round pick and three second-round picks for the 2029. 2032 and 2033 drafts. The trade also includes a pick-swap agreement, with Charlotte and Minnesota swapping three first-round picks in 2028, 2029 and 2030.
Ball’s contract situation is part of why this move lands with extra weight. Drafted by Charlotte with the No. 3 overall pick in 2020, Ball still has three years left on his current contract. On July 6, he will be eligible to sign a two-year, $119.2 million extension.
In Minnesota, Ball is set to join an existing centerpiece. He will team up with Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards. forming a backcourt pairing viewed as one of the NBA’s most promising. Edwards was taken No. 1 overall in 2020—two picks before Ball—meaning the two players’ paths have finally converged on the same roster.
Between the Hornets’ draft-heavy haul and Minnesota’s immediate upgrade at guard, the trade doesn’t just change lineups—it rebalances how both sides are betting on what comes next.
More to follow.
LaMelo Ball Charlotte Hornets Minnesota Timberwolves Josh Green Naz Reid NBA trade Anthony Edwards 2033 unprotected first draft picks 2028 pick swap 2029 pick swap 2030 pick swap July 6 extension