The Charlotte Hornets are hoping to make a splash in the upcoming NBA draft, but they may have a tough time.
That’s because a new report from Mike Lacett, via NBACentral, says that one draft lottery prospect didn’t want to work out for the Hornets because he didn’t want to play with LaMelo Ball.
Is this very bad news for the Hornets?
One draft lottery prospect reportedly refused to work out with the Hornets because he didn’t want to play with LaMelo Ball, per @mikelacett pic.twitter.com/g38BNB1QiN
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 19, 2025
Why wouldn’t a young up-and-coming player want to be on the court alongside one of the most exciting guards in the league?
Is it his attitude, his abilities, or something else?
It’s not uncommon for draft prospects to deny teams a workout, but it is usually because they already have relationships with other franchises and have their sights set on a different career path.
It’s not often that we hear of potential rookies sitting out because they don’t want to play with someone.
Whoever is coming to Charlotte better prepare to play with Ball, because he will likely be a very important part of the team next season.
He averaged 25.2 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 7.4 assists on 40.5 percent from the field in 2024-25.
With that being said, he only played in 47 games because of injuries, and the team was in tough shape all year.
So, the Hornets do need more talent, and they have to make the most out of this draft.
Just because one prospect said no to them, for whatever reason, doesn’t mean their luck will run out.
They hold the No. 4 pick, and that has a ton of potential.
This upcoming draft could be a big moment for the Hornets, but whatever rookie they sign needs to be ready to work closely with Ball.
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