NBA rumors: What Hornets are telling Naz Reid trade suitors after Timberwolves’ LaMelo Ball blockbuster

The Charlotte Hornets are reportedly not looking to flip newly acquired center Naz Reid after landing him in Thursday’s blockbuster trade that sent franchise guard LaMelo Ball to the Minnesota Timberwolves.

According to ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania, Charlotte has already received inquiries from teams interested in acquiring Reid. However, the Hornets are signaling that they intend to keep the versatile big man as part of their roster moving forward.

“They already got some trade calls in on [Naz Reid], but the plan is right now to keep him. This is a team that could still shift the roster around a little bit if they want,” Charania reported on ESPN’s SportsCenter.

Charlotte acquired Reid as the centerpiece of the return package in the deal that sent Ball and Josh Green to Minnesota. The Hornets also received an unprotected 2033 first-round pick, three first-round pick swaps and three second-round selections, giving the organization both an established contributor and significant draft capital.

While speculation immediately surfaced that Reid could be rerouted in another trade, Charania’s report suggests Charlotte views the 26-year-old as part of its plans entering the 2026-27 season.

Hornets see Naz Reid as key piece after LaMelo Ball trade

Reid has developed into one of the NBA’s most productive reserve big men since entering the league. The former Sixth Man of the Year became a fan favorite during his time in Minnesota thanks to his ability to score inside and stretch the floor as a 3-point shooter.

Last season, Reid averaged 13.6 points, 6.2 rebounds, 2.2 assists, a block and a steal while shooting 45.6% from the field and 36.2% from 3-point range across 77 games. He averaged 26.1 minutes per contest while making three starts.

His offensive versatility and ability to play both power forward and center give Charlotte another reliable frontcourt option as the franchise begins a new era following Ball’s departure.

Although the Hornets are reportedly keeping Reid, Charania noted the roster could continue evolving before the start of next season. Charlotte has added significant financial flexibility and draft assets through the Ball trade, leaving the front office with multiple avenues to continue reshaping the roster.

For now, however, the message to interested teams appears clear. Despite receiving early trade interest, the Hornets intend to keep Reid as they evaluate the next phase of the organization’s rebuild after one of the most surprising trades of the NBA offseason.

The post NBA rumors: What Hornets are telling Naz Reid trade suitors after Timberwolves’ LaMelo Ball blockbuster appeared first on ClutchPoints.