An NBA insider Kevin O’Connor Show revealed in his podcast last week that Charlotte Hornets moving on from LaMelo Ball is on the table. Ball, who the franchise picked third overall in 2020, came to the league with high expectations and has been an All-Star once so far.
The rumor from O’Connor came at a time when Charlotte underwent significant change in their front office.
“I do know one thing, a new front office, new ownership, they would not hesitate to move on from LaMelo Ball if he continues to sour over the remainder of this contract,” said O’Connor in his show on Youtube.
Ball has been in the league for five seasons but he is yet to make the playoffs. The farthest he’s reached is play-in. He is now a veteran in the league and so, higher expectations arrive.
His scoring averages have been going up since his first year, posting 25.2 ppg last season. However, the main issue is his availability. The most he’s played is 75 in 2021-2022 season. He suited up for only 47 games last season.
LaMelo Ball is not pressuring himself
For Ball, the pressure does not get to him as he explained that he’d take the season game by game.
“I don’t really have no pressure. Like I said, I just go in, play and try to get as much wins as we can and do as best as you could,” he said.
LaMelo Ball says he doesn’t feel any pressure
“I don’t really have no pressure. Like I said, I just go in, play and try to get as much wins as we can and do as best as you could.”
(Via https://t.co/aaRQ3BBdBg) pic.twitter.com/B87NUxtBuu
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) September 30, 2025
LaMelo’s contemporaries have made a mark in the playoffs. Most notable of them are top pick Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves who already reached the Western Conference finals and Tyrese Haliburton who reached the NBA finals last season with the Indiana Pacers.
Th front office has higher expectation on the sixth year guard. A Hornets reporter said they are looking at him now as a leader who should affect the game not just in scoring.
“Among the things to keep an eye out for in 2025-26: LaMelo Ball’s leadership,” wrote Hornets insider Roderick Boone in his article on Charlotte Observer.
“As the face of the franchise and the team’s highest paid player, there are certain responsibilities that come with that, and the Hornets want to see Ball take a leap in becoming more of a leader.”
For the latest Basketball Content
Make sure you are always updated on your favorite basketball players and teams. Follow us @HardwoodHeroics for the latest and trending news about NBA, college basketball, and more. Stay updated by reading more of our NBA articles by clicking here and college basketball by clicking here!
