Hornets President: Trading LaMelo Ball is About Pursuing Long-Term Stability and Success, with the Ultimate Goal of Winning a Championship

On July 12, Beijing time, Jeff Peterson, the Hornets' President of Basketball Operations, said that sending LaMelo Ball away was likely the most difficult choice he has ever made in his professional life. This trade was executed with the primary goal of establishing enduring stability and giving the Charlotte Hornets the capability to chase an NBA title down the line.

After the blockbuster trade was finalized, Hornets President Peterson held a media press conference today to explain the shocking move of dealing the team's most popular player. Charlotte sent LaMelo Ball and Josh Green to the Timberwolves in exchange for Naz Reid, an unprotected 2033 first-round pick, three second-round picks, and three first-round pick swaps. The transaction was part of a four-team deal involving the Nets and Bulls.

"Decisions like these are never easy, but looking at the entire season and evaluating the team's current situation, we have to be objective about where we stand," Peterson said during a press conference at the Las Vegas Summer League. "After the season ended, I had to face reality. Our goal has never been just to make the play-in tournament, to sneak into the playoffs once a year and be satisfied with that."

"Since arriving in Charlotte, I've emphasized repeatedly that the team's aim is to consistently make the playoffs year after year and eventually have what it takes to win a championship. Acquiring a player of Naz Reid's caliber, along with a wealth of draft assets and salary cap flexibility, makes this trade a multi-faceted win that allows us to advance several of our franchise-building plans simultaneously."

When asked why the team's strong second-half performance actually prompted the front office to consider trading Ball, Peterson responded: "My job can't be focused solely on the bright spots from the latter half or two-thirds of last season. I've been in this role for over two years, and I have to look at the bigger picture while also observing the trends across the entire league.Taking into account where the team stands and comparing us to other organizations, I have to make an objective, rational judgment. I fully acknowledge that Ball's leadership last season was instrumental in our success—his impact on the court was enormous, and I believe he will perform well in Minnesota. But from the Charlotte Hornets' perspective, now is the right time to make this major move. We currently have quality players, a deep rotation, and plenty of flexibility, and the future looks bright."

In the regular season last year, Ball played 72 games, averaging 20.1 points, 7.1 assists, and 4.8 rebounds while shooting 36.8% from three-point range—his highest game count since the 2021-22 season when he played 75 games. Butinjuries have plagued his tenure with the Hornets, as he missed significant time, appearing in only 105 games total across the three seasons from 2022-23 to 2024-25.

Even so, thanks to his flashy and imaginative style of play, Ball remained the most popular player on the team. Peterson admitted that he understands fans' frustration over trading away a 24-year-old former All-Star and Rookie of the Year.

When asked what he would say to fans, Peterson stated: "I empathize with the fans completely—I fully understand how they feel. To be honest, I have a great deal of appreciation for LaMelo; he's a wonderful person, his talent is unmatched, and I have a good personal relationship with him. But I hope fans understand that every decision I make is with the long-term best interests of the Hornets organization in mind.I'm not just focused on the results of one or two seasons. I'm pursuing lasting, stable success, and I'm objectively recognizing the current development cycle of the team. I firmly believe that this new-look Hornets team will remain competitive next year and for many years to come, and that one day we will achieve the goal of winning a championship."

Peterson revealed that team owners Gabe Plotkin and Rick Schnall were already aware of the trade and were not surprised. He also made it clear that trading Ball was not a cost-saving move. Ball currently has three years left on his contract and is eligible to sign a two-year, $119.2 million extension.

The team will now build around Miller and Knupper, who led the league in total three-pointers made during his rookie season, as the core of the franchise.The Hornets also signed Coby White to a three-year, $74 million contract to bring him back, and White will fill the void at point guard left by Ball's departure.

Miller underwent surgery in early May to repair a left shoulder instability issue and is expected to make a full recovery, but his return date has not yet been determined. "I'm very pleased with his attitude during rehab—he's practically living in the gym. He knows he needs to strengthen his body and improve his physicality, and he's taking that seriously and putting in the work."

Peterson also made it clear that the Hornets intend to keep Miller long-term and are moving forward with contract extension discussions. "I've already spoken with Brandon and his representation, and they understand that we want Miller to remain with the team for a long time."