Lonzo Ball doesn’t seem to believe his younger brother LaMelo will be in Charlotte much longer. On a recent episode of his podcast, the eldest Ball sibling speculated that the Hornets could trade up in the draft to select Dylan Harper and send LaMelo to the LA Clippers.
That scenario might sound discouraging to LaMelo supporters but could be appealing to those who think Charlotte should rebuild around Brandon Miller and whoever they manage to draft in 2025.
If the Hornets do move on from LaMelo, Harper wouldn’t be a bad choice to take his place as the franchise’s lead guard. The standout from Rutgers has impressed scouts with his combination of elite ball-handling, playmaking, rim finishing, and catch-and-shoot ability. On defense, his athleticism and wingspan give him the potential to be a disruptive presence.
Still, Lonzo’s theory mostly underscores how much misfortune the Hornets have faced. Harper is projected to go No. 2 overall, likely to the San Antonio Spurs—unless the pick is traded. For Charlotte to acquire it, they’d need to convince San Antonio to swap picks, which is tricky given the Hornets don’t have many enticing trade pieces. Unless they’re willing to part with future draft capital, it’s hard to imagine a deal getting done.
Other teams might have stronger offers anyway. The Spurs, for example, have reportedly considered packaging the No. 2 pick for a superstar like Giannis Antetokounmpo. If that’s the market value, the Hornets might have to give up Brandon Miller just to stay in the conversation—an expensive gamble.
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And as for LaMelo going to the Clippers? That move doesn’t offer Charlotte much in return. Outside of Ivica Zubac, who’s already 27 and arguably their only valuable asset for a rebuilding team, LA doesn’t seem like an ideal trade partner.
Even if LaMelo wants a move to LA to be closer to home and play for a high-profile team, he lacks the leverage to force it.
So in the end, Lonzo’s prediction may not happen at all. Instead, it highlights the frustrating reality in Charlotte: a talented young star like LaMelo hasn’t had the chance to flourish, and a poor draft lottery result may keep the Hornets from landing top prospects like Cooper Flagg or Dylan Harper.