Former NBA champion turned outspoken analyst Kendrick Perkins has launched a serious accusation against the Charlotte Hornets, claiming the franchise is deliberately undermining its own star player, LaMelo Ball. Perkins alleges this is a calculated strategy to diminish Ball's market value ahead of a potential trade.
The Explosive Allegation on Road Trippin' Show
During a recent appearance on The Road Trippin’ Show with hosts Richard Jefferson and Allie Clifton, Perkins did not mince words. He presented an anonymous text message, which Clifton read aloud, that suggested a direct plan by the Hornets organization. The message stated the team is limiting Ball to roughly 25-28 minutes per game to keep his statistical averages down. This, according to the claim, would prevent Ball from earning another All-Star selection, thereby reducing his leverage and perceived value in trade discussions.
Perkins supported his argument with current season statistics. For the 2025-26 NBA season, LaMelo Ball is averaging 19.5 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 7.9 assists in 28.1 minutes per game, while shooting 40.8% from the field and 37.1% from three-point range. Perkins pointed to a specific performance, like Ball's 33-point, 8-assist outing in just 27 minutes against the Indiana Pacers, as proof of his star potential when given the opportunity.
Financial Motives and Roster Dynamics
The veteran analyst explained the potential financial reasoning behind such a move. By preventing Ball from becoming a two-time All-Star, the Hornets could avoid certain salary escalators in his contract and weaken the negotiating position of Ball's camp. Ball is in the first year of a five-year, $203 million maximum contract extension signed in 2023, earning $37.0 million this season.
Perkins went further, suggesting the Hornets' focus has shifted to other young players. "Real talk... if you watch this Hornets team play, Kon Knueppel and Brandon Miller are the guys now," Perkins stated, implying Ball's future in Charlotte is over. This paints a picture of a potentially fractured relationship between the franchise cornerstone and the front office.
What This Means for LaMelo Ball's Future
These allegations throw a cloud of uncertainty over Ball's long-term status with the Hornets. The NBA trade deadline is in February 2026, and while trade rumors persist, Ball had publicly denied wanting to leave Charlotte as recently as November 2025. Whether his stance has changed remains unknown.
If Perkins' claims hold any truth, the Hornets risk significant self-inflicted damage. Intentionally suppressing a generational talent like Ball could backfire, harming the team's reputation with players and agents while potentially diminishing the actual return in any future trade. The situation presents a high-stakes drama as the season progresses toward the trade deadline.
