Hornets Executive Explains LaMelo Ball Trade

“These decisions are challenging at times, but when you look at the totality of the season and everything of where we were, it’s important to take an honest look in the mirror of where you guys are as a team,” Peterson told reporters Saturday afternoon at the Las Vegas Summer League. “And that’s what I had to do at the end of the season. And it just felt like the goal is never to compete for a play-in spot. The goal isn’t to get to the play-in or even the playoffs for one year.

“I’ve said it plenty of times since I’ve been here in Charlotte: The goal is to get to the playoffs and stay there for a long time. And eventually contend to compete for championships. Getting Naz Reid when you can get a player of his caliber. And of course, the draft capital and the flexibility just felt like it was something that was able to achieve multiple goals in one transaction.”

The Hornets were expected to keep their young core together after they rallied in the second half of the season to land a spot in the play-in tournament. Charlotte began a 32-13 stretch in early January, and Youngmisuk notes that they had the league’s No. 1 offense and No. 5 defense from January 1 through the end of the season.

While the 44-38 record represented major progress following a 19-win season, Peterson wasn’t convinced that it was enough. After edging Miami in their play-in opener, the Hornets were crushed by Orlando and still haven’t reached the playoffs since 2016.

“It’s my job to not just look at half of last season or two-thirds of last season,” Peterson said. “I’ve been here for a little bit over two years now. So looking at the totality of the picture and also looking at trends along the league. Just making an objective decision in terms of just the timing and being honest with myself of where we really are as it compares to the rest of the league.

“I’ll say it every day: LaMelo was tremendous in our run last year. He was extremely impactful and I know he’s going to do great in Minnesota. But for the Charlotte Hornets, just felt like it was the right time to execute a trade of that magnitude. We’re in a great position because of the talent, the depth of our roster and our flexibility.”

Peterson said owners Gabe Plotkin and Rick Schnall were kept informed about trade talks regarding Ball, but he emphasized that the deal wasn’t driven by finances. Ball has three years left on his contract at $40.8MM, $43.6MM and $46.4MM and is eligible for an extension this summer.

Peterson added that Brandon Miller is expected to make a full recovery after undergoing surgery in May to repair instability in his left shoulder. The team is hoping to work out a rookie scale extension with the 23-year-old small forward during the offseason.

“I’ve been very, very pleased with the way he’s attacking his rehab,” Peterson said. “He’s in the gym constantly. He knows he has to continue to work on his body and get stronger and he’s taken that to heart.”