What happened: A Hornets executive addressed the trade sending LaMelo Ball to Minnesota for Naz Reid and draft picks, describing the move as part of a plan to build a roster capable of competing for championships. The deal, completed this week, also included Charlotte sending out Green.

Why it matters: The trade marks a shift for Charlotte, swapping its point guard for size and draft capital rather than continuing to build around Ball. The Hornets GM already framed the retooled roster as a contender a day earlier, and this statement reinforces that direction ahead of the 2026-27 season.

What to watch: Charlotte's roster moves continue to take shape heading into the 2026-27 season after also adding Dorian Finney-Smith, PJ Hall and re-signing Coby White this offseason.