The Charlotte Hornets have traded star guard LaMelo Ball to the Minnesota Timberwolves, according to a report by ESPN.com on Thursday.
The move sends Ball to Minnesota to team up with Anthony Edwards. In return, the Hornets receive Naz Reid, a protected first-round pick in 2033, three first-round pick swaps in 2028, 2029, and 2030, and three second-round picks.
This trade comes amidst reports that Edwards, the Timberwolves' current star, was considering forcing a trade if the team did not improve his supporting cast. The pairing of Ball and Edwards is expected to be a significant development for the Timberwolves' roster.
Ball's tenure with the Hornets has been marked by flashes of brilliance but also periods of unavailability. Last season, he played in 72 games, the second-highest total of his career. In his first three seasons, he appeared in 105 out of a possible 246 games.