Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch believes the addition of LaMelo Ball will give his team another reliable offensive option alongside Anthony Edwards, particularly during the closing minutes of games.
The Timberwolves acquired Ball from the Charlotte Hornets during the offseason in a major trade that sent Naz Reid, a 2033 first-round pick, three second-round picks and three first-round pick swaps to Charlotte.
Finch said Minnesota president of basketball operations Tim Connelly had been discussing Ball with the Hornets on multiple occasions throughout the previous year before completing the deal.
The move followed another significant transaction involving the Timberwolves.
Two days earlier, Minnesota traded Julius Randle and the No. 28 draft pick to the Brooklyn Nets as part of a three-team deal, receiving an early second-round selection and additional salary-cap space.
Ball arrives after a productive season with Charlotte, helping the Hornets finish with 44 victories.
The guard averaged 20.1 points, 7.1 assists and 4.8 rebounds per game while shooting 36.8% from three-point range on 10.3 attempts per contest.
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The Timberwolves struggled to advance beyond the second round of last season’s NBA playoffs, losing their series against the San Antonio Spurs in six games.
Finch believes Ball’s ability to handle the ball, create shots and score from long distance can provide additional options when opponents focus their defensive attention on Edwards.
The two guards are expected to share significant offensive responsibilities as Minnesota prepares for the upcoming season.
Ball’s arrival also gives the Timberwolves more flexibility in their backcourt rotations and another experienced playmaker capable of running the offense.
