LaMelo Ball deal with Timberwolves frustrates Raptors’ plans after Charlotte Hornets close deal
The Toronto Raptors had shown considerable progress in the 2025-26 season, finishing with a respectable score of 46-36. The team secured fifth place in the Eastern Conference, returning to the playoffs for the first time since 2022, although their journey was interrupted by the Cleveland Cavaliers in a seven-game series in the first round.
With established talents like Scottie Barnes, Brandon Ingram and Immanuel Quickley already part of the squad, the expectation across the league was that the Canadian franchise would actively seek to add yet another high-caliber offensive player during the summer transfer period.
Throughout the season and preseason, the Raptors’ name was frequently associated with several NBA stars, including Giannis Antetokounmpo and Ja Morant. More recently, Charlotte Hornets point guard LaMelo Ball has emerged as a priority target.
The attention surrounding LaMelo Ball’s possible move to Toronto intensified last Wednesday, when renowned journalists such as Marc Stein and Jake Fischer announced that both the Toronto Raptors and the Minnesota Timberwolves were the main interested parties in negotiating with the former All-Star player.
LaMelo Ball was seen as an ideal piece for the Raptors, mainly due to the team’s lack of playmaking and scoring capabilities on the perimeter. His court vision and ability in positional attack would complement the stars already present.
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However, this perspective quickly changed. On Thursday, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that the Charlotte Hornets have finalized the trade of LaMelo Ball and Josh Green to the Minnesota Timberwolves. In return, the Hornets will receive Naz Reid, an unprotected 2033 first-round pick, three first-round pick swaps in 2028, 2029 and 2030, plus three second-round picks in 2029, 2032 and 2033.
The news of the transfer represented a blow to Toronto Raptors fans, who already saw LaMelo Ball as a transformative element for the team. At 24 years old, Ball had impressive averages last season, recording 20.1 points, 7.1 assists and 4.8 rebounds in 72 games, marking one of the most consistent and productive periods of his career. His dynamic playing style, accurate passing and strong scoring power would be a perfect fit alongside Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram, providing the Raptors with an additional and much-needed playmaker on offense.
Given this scenario, the Toronto Raptors now need to refocus their efforts and explore other opportunities in the market to strengthen their squad before the start of the next NBA season.
