Hornets Drop in Draft Lottery, Lonzo Ball Pushes for LaMelo Trade

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Charlotte Hornets had a 14.0% chance to secure the top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft Lottery, but they fell from third to fourth during the draw. This outcome means the team misses out on selecting Duke Blue Devils star Cooper Flagg.

While the fourth pick allows for the potential selection of Baylor standout V.J. Edgecombe, the Hornets will need strong contributions from their rising stars, LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller, to revitalize the franchise. However, complications arise as LaMelo’s brother, Lonzo Ball, has expressed a desire for LaMelo to join the Los Angeles Clippers.

In a recent episode of his podcast, “What An Experience with Lonzo Ball,” Lonzo reaffirmed his stance on a trade. “Let me say this though, I stand on what I said. Imma leave it at that,” he stated regarding his wish for the Clippers to acquire LaMelo.

According to Lonzo, the Hornets are likely to draft Rutgers guard Dylan Harper, followed by a trade of LaMelo to the Clippers. Despite the speculation, no trade appears imminent, especially unless LaMelo himself requests a move out of Charlotte. The team currently relies on the youth of its roster for future success.

As the Hornets navigate their upcoming decisions, Lonzo’s comments suggest that the current players are contemplating the same trade discussions that are circulating in the media.