The Minnesota Timberwolves have landed one of the biggest stars available on the trade market, acquiring LaMelo Ball and Josh Green from the Charlotte Hornets in a blockbuster deal that dramatically reshapes both franchises.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Hornets will receive Naz Reid, an unprotected 2033 first-round pick, three first-round pick swaps in 2028, 2029, and 2030, along with three second-round picks in 2029, 2032, and 2033.
The move gives Minnesota the star point guard it has been searching for and creates one of the NBA’s most exciting young backcourts. Anthony Edwards, the No. 1 overall pick in 2020, will now team up with LaMelo Ball, the No. 3 pick from the same draft class. Both players are 24 years old and enter what should be the prime years of their careers.
For weeks, the Timberwolves had been linked to several high-profile guards after moving Julius Randle in a salary-clearing trade. Reports connected Minnesota to players such as Ja Morant and Derrick White, but the front office ultimately made its biggest swing for Ball.
It is also a move that reflects the urgency surrounding the franchise. Anthony Edwards has reportedly pushed the organization to upgrade the roster after another disappointing playoff exit, and president Tim Connelly has now delivered a legitimate All-Star running mate.
Ball reminded everyone of his talent during the 2025-26 season. After several injury-plagued campaigns, the former Rookie of the Year appeared in 72 games and averaged 20.1 points, 7.1 assists, and 4.8 rebounds while shooting 36.8% from three-point range. His return to health restored his value around the league, leading multiple teams to aggressively pursue him.
According to previous reports from Shams Charania, Charlotte was never actively shopping for Ball. Instead, the Hornets listened to offers and ultimately accepted one of the richest packages available.
Minnesota paid a significant price.
Naz Reid has developed into one of the NBA’s best frontcourt players, averaging 13.6 points and 6.2 rebounds while providing floor spacing and versatility. He now heads to Charlotte, where he fills a major need in the Hornets’ frontcourt and gives the franchise an established veteran alongside its young core.
The draft compensation is equally substantial. An unprotected first-round pick, three future swaps, and three second-round selections represent a massive long-term investment. It shows Minnesota believes Ball is worth building around alongside Edwards for years to come.
Josh Green is another valuable addition. The versatile wing brings perimeter defense, athleticism, and depth to a Timberwolves roster that continues to reshape itself into a contender in the Western Conference.
The upside is undeniable. Few teams can match the offensive creativity of an Edwards-Ball backcourt. Ball’s elite passing should create easier scoring opportunities for Edwards, while Edwards’ downhill scoring will give Ball more space to operate than he ever enjoyed in Charlotte.
For the Hornets, the trade accelerates a youth movement while adding one of the league’s most reliable big men. For the Timberwolves, it is an all-in move designed to chase a championship. Minnesota wanted a star point guard. It found one in LaMelo Ball.
