Charlotte Hornets president of basketball operations Jeff Peterson on Saturday offered the franchise’s first detailed explanation of why the club sent LaMelo Ball to the Minnesota Timberwolves, a four-team swap initially agreed to on June 25 and completed Friday.
Speaking with reporters at the Las Vegas Summer League, Peterson said the move reflected a long-term strategy rather than a short-term push for postseason spots.
“The goal is never to compete for a play-in spot,” he said. “The goal is to get to the playoffs and stay there for a long time, and eventually contend for championships.”
Multiple objectives in one deal
Peterson pointed to the addition of center Naz Reid, extra draft picks and greater roster flexibility as key benefits secured in the transaction. “Getting a player of his caliber, along with the draft capital and flexibility, felt like something that could achieve multiple goals in one move,” he noted.
Regular-season surge not enough
Charlotte finished last season 44-38 after a 19-win campaign the year before, posting the NBA’s No. 1 offense and No. 5 defense from January 1 onward while going 32-13. The Hornets edged Miami in their first play-in game but were routed by Orlando, leaving the franchise without a playoff appearance since 2016.
“It’s my job to look at the totality of the picture,” Peterson said. “Being honest about where we really are compared to the rest of the league led me to believe this was the right time for a trade of that magnitude.”
No financial mandate
Peterson emphasized that ownership duo Gabe Plotkin and Rick Schnall stayed informed but did not drive the decision for financial reasons. Ball, 24, has three seasons remaining on his contract worth $40.8 million, $43.6 million and $46.4 million, and is eligible for an extension this summer.
Injury update on Brandon Miller
The executive also said forward Brandon Miller is on track for a full recovery after May surgery to stabilize his left shoulder. The team hopes to reach a rookie-scale extension with the 23-year-old during the offseason.
“I’ve been very pleased with the way he’s attacking his rehab,” Peterson added. “He knows he has to keep working on his body, and he’s taken that to heart.”
The Hornets head into the remainder of the summer with an overhauled roster, additional draft assets and an eye on building sustained success.
Source: Hoops Rumors
