A high-level replacement could be available for the Hornets if they decide to move on from their star.
In 2026, the Charlotte Hornets could be staring down a franchise-defining choice with massive implications for Buzz City: whether to trade LaMelo Ball. If he is no longer in Charlotte, general manager Jeff Peterson will need to prioritize finding a high-level replacement at point guard.
Enter Mikel Brown Jr.
The Louisville University standout, who ranks fifth on FanSided’s NBA Draft Big Board, checks a lot of boxes and could be the perfect catalyst to accelerate the Hornets' rebuild.