Lamelo Ball's contract is one of the most talked about topics in the NBA today. As the Charlotte Hornets' star point guard continues to develop his game, fans and analysts alike are curious about the financial implications of his current deal, potential extensions, and what lies ahead for the young star. Whether you're a Hornets supporter, a fantasy basketball player, or just a fan of rising NBA talent, understanding Lamelo Ball’s contract is key to grasping his role on the team and his future in the league.

With the Hornets entering a new chapter under new leadership and with young talent like Brandon Miller emerging, questions are swirling about Ball’s long-term fit in Charlotte. Add in injury concerns and contract timelines, and it’s easy to see why this is a hot topic across NBA circles. So, let’s break it all down, from his current salary to possible trade scenarios and what fans can expect next.

Before diving into the details of Lamelo Ball’s contract, it helps to understand who he is and how he got here. From being a top NBA draft pick to becoming a franchise cornerstone, Ball’s journey has been both exciting and, at times, unpredictable. So, let’s take a quick look at his background before we get into the contract specifics.

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Table of Contents

• Biography of Lamelo Ball
• Lamelo Ball Contract: Full Breakdown
• Will Lamelo Ball Sign a Contract Extension?
• Trade Rumors and Their Impact on His Contract
• How Injuries Affect His Contract Value
• Frequently Asked Questions

Biography of Lamelo Ball

Born on August 22, 2001, in Anaheim, California, Lamelo Ball quickly rose through the basketball ranks with his flashy playmaking and unique personality. Before entering the NBA, he played professionally in Lithuania and Australia, gaining international experience that set him apart from typical high school-to-NBA prospects.

In 2020, he was selected third overall by the Charlotte Hornets in the NBA Draft. His rookie season earned him the NBA Rookie of the Year award, and he’s since become one of the league’s most exciting young players. However, injuries have limited his availability in recent seasons, adding uncertainty to his long-term outlook.

Quick Bio

Lamelo Ball Contract: Full Breakdown

Lamelo Ball is currently in the fourth year of his rookie contract, which he signed after being selected third in the 2020 NBA Draft. Rookie scale contracts are standardized, so his deal follows a typical structure for a top-three pick.

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For the 2024–2025 season, Ball is set to earn around $12.7 million. That’s the final year of his initial four-year deal with the Hornets. Because of the structure of rookie contracts, the Hornets have the option to extend his deal before the start of free agency in the summer of 2025.

So, what does this mean for the future? Well, Ball is eligible for a contract extension this offseason. If the Hornets choose to lock him in long-term, they can offer him a deal that could keep him in Charlotte for several more years. But given the current landscape, there’s a lot to consider.

Will Lamelo Ball Sign a Contract Extension?

The big question on everyone’s mind is whether Lamelo Ball will sign a long-term extension with the Charlotte Hornets. Typically, teams look to extend their core players before the final year of their rookie contract, but Ball’s injury history has added some hesitation.

He’s missed significant time over the past few seasons due to ankle and foot injuries, including recent arthroscopic surgery to address a right ankle impingement. These setbacks raise concerns about his durability and long-term health, which could impact the Hornets' decision to offer a max contract.

Still, Ball has shown flashes of elite-level play when healthy. He averaged over 20 points and 7 assists per game during the 2022–2023 season, proving that he has the talent to be a franchise cornerstone. If he can stay on the floor, Charlotte may be more inclined to offer a hefty extension.

Here’s what we know about the possible contract extension:

• Ball is eligible for a rookie scale extension this offseason.
• The Hornets have until October 2024 to sign him to a multi-year deal.
• If they don’t extend him by then, he’ll enter restricted free agency after the 2024–2025 season.

Trade Rumors and Their Impact on His Contract

As the Hornets undergo a coaching change and add young talent like Brandon Miller, trade speculation around Lamelo Ball has picked up. Some fans and analysts believe the team might consider moving him to make room for the next generation of players.

If the Hornets decide to trade Ball before his contract expires, it could affect his value. Teams looking to acquire him might be hesitant to offer a max contract extension after taking on his salary, especially if they’re concerned about his injury history.

On the flip side, a fresh start in a new system could be exactly what Ball needs to unlock his full potential. A trade could also open the door for a more lucrative contract if he lands with a contender or a team looking to build around a young star.

So, while trade rumors are still just that—rumors—they play a big role in the larger conversation about Ball’s future. Whether he stays in Charlotte or moves elsewhere, his contract will be a major factor in any decision.

How Injuries Affect His Contract Value

One of the biggest wild cards in Lamelo Ball’s contract situation is his injury history. He’s had multiple issues with his ankle and foot, including arthroscopic surgery in recent months. These injuries not only affect his availability but also raise concerns about his long-term durability.

From a financial standpoint, teams are cautious about locking in large contracts for players with a history of significant injuries. While Ball has the talent to command a max deal, the uncertainty around his health could cause the Hornets—or any potential trade partner—to hesitate.

However, if he can stay healthy and perform at a high level this upcoming season, he could solidify his case for a max extension. That’s why the 2024–2025 season is so crucial for both Ball and the Hornets. His performance on the floor will directly influence the financial decisions made off it.

So, while injuries are a concern, they don’t have to define his career. If he can manage his body and avoid further setbacks, he’ll be in a strong position to negotiate a long-term deal that reflects his talent and potential.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is Lamelo Ball making in 2024?

Lamelo Ball is set to earn approximately $12.7 million for the 2024–2025 NBA season. This is the final year of his rookie-scale contract with the Charlotte Hornets.

Is Lamelo Ball eligible for a contract extension?

Yes, Lamelo Ball is eligible for a rookie contract extension this offseason. The Hornets can offer him a multi-year deal before October 2024. If they don’t extend him, he’ll enter restricted free agency after the 2024–2025 season.

Could Lamelo Ball be traded?

Trade rumors have surfaced as the Hornets look to build around newer players like Brandon Miller. While nothing is confirmed, it’s possible the team could explore trade options for Ball, especially if they’re unsure about his long-term fit.

Stay updated with the latest NBA news on Lamelo Ball at ESPN.

If you're interested in how NBA contracts work, check out our guide on NBA Rookie Scale Contracts Explained.