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Hornets linked to 3-time All-Star who can help LaMelo Ball, Kon Knueppel reach next level

Hornets linked to 3-time All-Star who can help LaMelo Ball, Kon Knueppel reach next level originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Charlotte Hornets might improve a lot this offseason after a trade rumor reported their involvement with the three-time All-Star from the Sacramento Kings.

According to the latest intel from HoopsHype's Michael Scotto, the Kings and the Hornets are exploring trade talks involving Domantas Sabonis and Miles Bridges. While the talks are still in preliminary stages, it was reported that Charlotte might send Bridges, Josh Green, and a potential first-round draft pick to Sacramento in exchange for Sabonis. However, it's worth noting that the Hornets are not ready to part ways with either of their 14th or 18th picks in the 2026 NBA draft.

The timing for this potential trade rumor is perfect. Sabonis' potential addition could unlock the Hornets' ability to reach another level, while keeping in focus the skill set of LaMelo Ball and rising rookie Kon Knueppel. The franchise won 44 games last season and is rising in the Eastern Conference.

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How Domantas Sabonis' potential addition helps Hornets' LaMelo Ball and Kon Knueppel

The Hornets need an upgrade at the center position and Domantas Sabonis, a three-time rebounding champion and a premier passing big man, could fit well.

In the injury-shortened 2025-26 season, the Kings center averaged 15.8 points, 11.4 rebounds and 4.4 assists before his knee surgery requirement limited him to just 19 games.

Ball, known for his creative passing in transition, could enjoy playing alongside Sabonis. The combination could very well give way to dynamic pick-and-roll plays. This will reduce the burden on Ball to carry the Hornets' offense on every possession, as he could maximize on Sabonis' dribble handoffs.

Meanwhile, Kneuppel, who earned All-Rookie First-Team Honors last season, has already enjoyed playing with Ball. An All-Star addition in Sabonis could elevate his game to another dimension. Kneuppel could use all the defensive attention that Sabonis would attract because of his presence for catch-and-shoot opportunities from beyond the arc.

The 30-year-old star from Kings would bring experience with him that the young Hornets core could utilize.

If the Hornets are in favor of trading for Sabonis, they must keep in mind that the Kings' star is owed $94.08 million over the next two seasons. So, any trade package they sent must consider the financial flexibility for them to make other moves in the offseason.