What Is LaMelo Ball's Trade Value? Latest Rumors Surrounding Hornets PG's Market

While Charlotte Hornets star point guard LaMelo Ball could be one of the top players available on the trade market this season, other teams are taking a patient approach in their possible pursuit of the floor general.

NBA insider Jake Fischer spoke to multiple sources who explained that it's "premature" to evaluate Ball's trade candidacy.

"One source said it was way too soon," Fischer stated. "Another source passed along that the Hornets might eventually reach a point before the Feb. 5 trade deadline that they decide to seriously field offers for the former All-Star guard but echoed the notion that we're not there yet."

Ball has been one of the most dazzling young players in the league for years, but he's played in less than 47 games in each of the last three seasons due to injuries. Fischer went on to add that his value won't be as high as Charlotte would want.

"The Hornets are unlikely to get the sort of offers for Ball they'd be hoping for until their star guard can get through a stretch of sustained production, availability and ideally some winning," Fischer stated, comparing the situation to Anthony Davis' with the Dallas Mavericks. "No wonder the Hornets, as league sources maintain, are not currently interested in looking to move him."

Fischer noted that Ball "is not a character concern off the floor by any means," so there should be interest in him if he's made available for a trade. While his shot selection "also turns some teams off," Fischer made it clear that "the durability questions resonate the loudest leaguewide."

Ball was rumored to have requested a trade from the Hornets amid their continued struggles, as they have opened the season with a 4-12 record. However, he denied the notion, telling reporters on Friday, "I love being here. I ain't saying nothing. I'm just trying to win, that's it. That's what we're going to keep doing."

Fans will be curious to see if Ball will benefit from a change in scenery. But for now, he will try to help Charlotte end a five-game losing streak on Sunday when it faces the Atlanta Hawks (10-7).