Stop all your LaMelo Ball-to-Kings trade jokes

As NBA trade speculation is heating upone rumor continues to circulate on the Internet: the potential LaMelo Ball work that includes Sacramento Kings. League reporting, however, indicates there is no basis for the connection Charlotte Hornets guard Sacramento’s plans.

NBA insider Jake Fisher addressed the topic on the latest episode of Bleacher Report’s Insider Notebook with Jake Fisher, clarifying that Sacramento he showed no interest in the chase former All-Star.

“I don’t think Sacramento is really interested in LaMelo Ball. I think everything Scott Perry has talked about, privately and publicly since he’s taken over this team, indicates a desire to re-establish a solid, solid identity,” Fisher said.

He also mentioned how Ball is viewed in some league circles.

“Someone I spoke to on the phone this morning — a prominent NBA figure — called LaMelo Ball ‘the most frivolous player in the NBA.’ That’s not my opinion — that was a quote from someone in the league. “I don’t think Sacramento would look at LaMelo as someone who really revitalizes their culture,” he said.

A Royals roster with a big guard and a culture change leaves no room for a LaMelo Ball chase

Sacramento’s roster construction further undermines any notion of chasing the ball. The Kings already have significant guard depth, including Russell Westbrook, Dennis Schroder, Zach LaVine, Keon Ellis, Malik Monk, DeMar DeRozan and Devin Carter among a group that totals 10 guards. The organization has spent the season emphasizing defensive size, physicality and versatility — areas that don’t align with the addition of another playmaker who is often used.

Ball, 24, remains a key figure in Charlotte’s long-term outlook despite the team’s struggles. He is averaging 19.4 points, 8.5 assists, six rebounds and 1.1 steals per game while shooting a career-low 38.6% from the field and 28.5% from three. He appeared in 16 games this season, while logging 28.9 minutes per contest.

Both franchises continue with their schedules. The Hornets (7-17) take on the Chicago Bulls (9-14) on Friday at 7pm ET, while The Kings (6–18) return home to host the Denver Nuggets (17–6) on Thursday at 10:00 PM ET.

Despite ongoing rumors around the league, the indications remain unchanged: Sacramento is not expected to explore a trade for LaMelo Ball.