Report: Charlotte Hornets aggressively shopping LaMelo Ball ahead of free agency

Minutes after the 2026 NBA Draft ended on Wednesday night, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that the Charlotte Hornets are aggressively shopping LaMelo Ball ahead of free agency. According to the report, multiple teams are strongly pursuing the guard, and the Hornets are reportedly engaged in trade discussions. Ball has spent six seasons with Charlotte and has earned an All-Star selection once, in 2022, while also being named NBA Rookie of the Year in 2021. The report says both sides have been in a good place and that Ball wants to remain in Charlotte, but the organization is fielding offers that could prompt a move if the price is met. Charania described it as a developing story potentially unfolding within 24-48 hours.