Hornets 'Poised' to Lean More on 7-Foot-1 Center After LaMelo Ball Trade
Summary
The Charlotte Hornets traded LaMelo Ball and appear ready to rely more on their 7-foot-1 center, Ryan Kalkbrenner, in the coming season. Kalkbrenner showed strong defensive skills and efficient scoring in his rookie year and now has a chance to take a bigger role on the team.Key Facts
- The Hornets traded LaMelo Ball for Naz Reid and several future draft picks.
- Minnesota Timberwolves made the trade to support player Anthony Edwards.
- Ryan Kalkbrenner is a 7-foot-1 center who was the 34th overall pick in the 2025 NBA draft.
- Kalkbrenner won multiple defensive awards in college and averaged 19.2 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks in his last college season.
- In his rookie NBA season, Kalkbrenner played 69 games, averaging 7.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game.
- He had a high shooting accuracy of 75.3% and was second among rookies in win shares.
- The Hornets did not sign other centers this offseason, showing confidence in Kalkbrenner.
- Kalkbrenner is expected to get more playing time and become a key defensive player for the Hornets.
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