Report: Ball open to trade amid growing frustrations with Hornets

LaMelo Ball has grown increasingly frustrated with the Charlotte Hornets and is open to being traded, sources told Yahoo Sports' Kelly Iko.

The Hornets' front office is becoming more hesitant to cement Ball as a long-term piece and isn't opposed to moving him elsewhere, reports Iko.

Ball later refuted Iko's report of his discontent on social media.

Charlotte drafted Ball with the No. 3 overall pick in 2020. The 6-foot-7 guard enjoyed early success, winning Rookie of the Year and earning his first All-Star nod a year later.

However, Ball has continuously struggled to stay healthy, making just 114 appearances since his sophomore campaign.

Ball is averaging 21.6 points and 9.6 assists this season but is shooting a career-low 38.5% from the field. He was benched for the final 4:32 of Wednesday's loss to the 2-13 Indiana Pacers.

Ball is under contract through the 2028-29 season. He signed a five-year, $203.9-million deal in July 2023.

The Hornets sit 12th in the Eastern Conference with a 4-11 record entering Thursday.