Tim MacMahon recently joined Brian Windhorst on The Hoop Collective, hinting that the Charlotte Hornets might move on from LaMelo Ball at the February 2026 trade deadline. "If LaMelo plays well early in the season, it could be an interesting trade deadline," MacMahon said.
If he does become available, the Portland Trail Blazers should try to get in on the Ball sweepstakes.
At first glance, the fit doesn't quite make sense for Portland. After adding Damian Lillard and Jrue Holiday this summer, they already have a backcourt logjam that needs solving. Ball is also a below-average defender, which doesn't align with Portland's identity.