Lonzo Ball‘s acquisition by the Cleveland Cavaliers has not delivered the expected impact since the team sought to strengthen its defense and bench ball-handling following the departure of Ty Jerome. Despite a strong performance last season with Chicago, Ball has faced significant challenges adapting to Cleveland’s system this year. As the Cavaliers seek to improve their roster dynamics, they have begun to lean on players like Keon Ellis and Dennis Schröder, signaling a reduced role for Ball.
Cavaliers Aim to Reduce Payroll and Avoid Draft Pick Restrictions
Currently, the Cavaliers are approximately $14 million over the NBA’s second-apron salary line, which affects their financial flexibility and draft pick status for 2033. To avoid these constraints and lower their payroll, Cleveland is motivated to move Ball and his $10 million salary. Finding a team willing to absorb Ball’s contract is a priority ahead of the NBA trade deadline at 3 p.m. ET on Thursday.
Hornets Positioned to Absorb Ball’s Contract and Revitalize Roster
The Charlotte Hornets have $14.4 million in cap space under the luxury tax threshold, giving them ample room to take on Ball’s contract. Though their roster is full with 15 players, they could waive a low-impact player to accommodate Ball. The Hornets’ mid-level exception of $14.1 million remains unused, providing additional financial flexibility. Notably, Charlotte employs LaMelo Ball, Lonzo’s younger brother and a star guard who has been integral to the team’s recent improvement.
Preliminary Talks Signal Potential Trade to Unify Ball Brothers in Charlotte
Sources indicate that the Cavaliers and Hornets have engaged in initial discussions regarding a trade that would help Cleveland drop below the second apron line. While the primary motivation for the deal is financial, this move carries symbolic weight for Charlotte. Early in the season, rumors suggested LaMelo Ball might part ways with the Hornets, but acquiring Lonzo would reinforce the franchise’s commitment to LaMelo during their playoff push. Currently, Charlotte is the hottest team in the NBA with a seven-game winning streak, close to securing a play-in spot behind the Atlanta Hawks.
LaVar Ball’s Vision for All Three Sons on One NBA Team
LaVar Ball has repeatedly expressed his ambition for Lonzo, LaMelo, and LiAngelo Ball to play together in the NBA. In 2017, he envisioned all three brothers on the Lakers, stating,
“Put them together and watch what they do. It’ll be magic.”
By 2018, he outlined a free agency plan that would bring all his sons to the same team, indicating Lonzo’s willingness to leave the Lakers to fulfill this goal. In 2020, after LaMelo was drafted by Charlotte, LaVar boldly guaranteed a championship if all three played together for the Hornets, remarking,
“Get all three of them, I guarantee they win a championship. Folks don’t understand that.”
LiAngelo’s Absence Likely Prevents Full Family Reunion on NBA Court
The possibility of uniting all three Ball brothers on the Hornets faces a significant hurdle as LiAngelo Ball has stepped away from professional basketball. Although he appeared in 31 games for the Greensboro Swarm, Charlotte’s G-League team, LiAngelo retired last August to pursue a music career following the success of his song Tweaker. His last pro appearance was in early 2024 with Mexico’s Astros de Jalisco, suggesting his playing days are likely over. While bringing Lonzo to Charlotte would reunite two of the brothers with LaMelo, fulfilling LaVar Ball’s full vision remains improbable.
What This Trade Could Mean for the Hornets and the NBA
Adding Lonzo Ball to the Hornets could sharpen their lineup, improve their bench depth, and intensify their playoff push in a competitive Eastern Conference. It would send a message about the team’s ongoing commitment to LaMelo Ball and keep the spotlight on Charlotte as an emerging contender. For Cleveland, the trade offers salary relief and the freedom to manage future draft assets more effectively. As the NBA trade deadline approaches, fans and analysts will closely watch whether this family reunion will materialize and how it might reshape both franchises’ seasons.
