LaMelo Ball and Trae Young Emerge as Top Off-Season Trade Targets

March 03, 2025 ,


Several emerging NBA stars, such as LaMelo Ball and Trae Young, could become major trade targets this offseason, as reported by Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.

Ball, currently under a five-year, $203.85 million contract with the Charlotte Hornets, is viewed by executives as one of the most intriguing players to watch on the trade market this summer. 

"The availability of Hornets guard LaMelo Ball is one of the key storylines several executives are keeping an eye on," Scotto noted.

This season, Ball has been putting up impressive numbers, averaging 26.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 7.0 assists. 

However, the Hornets have struggled, holding a disappointing 14-45 record. After leading the team to two Play-In Tournaments in his first two seasons—the franchise's most significant progress in nearly a decade—Ball may be eager to join a team with a stronger chance of winning.

Since being drafted third overall in 2020, Ball has been the cornerstone of the Hornets' franchise. If Charlotte decides to trade him, it could indicate a full-scale rebuild, as moving his max salary would free up significant cap space.



Meanwhile, another potential Eastern Conference shakeup could involve Trae Young and the Atlanta Hawks. Young is currently on a five-year, $215.16 million contract, with a player option for the 2026-27 season.  

According to Scotto, executives around the league are questioning whether Atlanta will offer Young a long-term extension this offseason or explore trading him before his salary increases further.

Young is also eligible for a four-year, $229 million extension this summer. Despite leading the Hawks to the Eastern Conference Finals once, the team has also suffered two first-round playoff exits and missed the postseason three times during his tenure. 

With Atlanta sitting at 27-33 this season, executives are reportedly uncertain about committing to Young long-term.


As the offseason approaches, both Ball and Young could find themselves at the center of major trade discussions, potentially reshaping the futures of their respective franchises.


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