LaMelo Ball is reportedly 'increasingly frustrated' with The Hornets and is 'open to a trade'.

The Charlotte Hornets are not regarded as a model NBA franchise, having one of the worst winning percentages among teams over the last half-decade.

Although the 2025-26 season began with a 4-11 record, the Charlotte Hornets started to see some improvement, largely due to rookie sensation Kon Knueppel, whom they selected with the fourth overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.

However, this isn't sufficient for LaMelo Ball, who is Charlotte's inaugural All-Star since Kemba Walker's prime.

MORE: Is Kon Knueppel emerging as the new face of the Hornets?

Sources indicate LaMelo Ball is experiencing frustration with The Hornets.

According to Yahoo Sports' Kelly Iko, Ball is "frustrated" with the current direction of the Hornets and would be open to a trade out of Charlotte.

"Star guard LaMelo Ball has grown increasingly frustrated with the organization and is open to a trade away from the franchise, multiple league sources told Yahoo Sports," wrote Iko.

"League sources say the front office is increasingly hesitant about cementing Ball as a long-term foundational piece, has become disillusioned with the 24-year-old and is open to moving him."

Sources indicate Ball is dissatisfied with head coach Charles Lee's offensive scheme, which has marginalized LaMelo's playing approach.

Despite only playing in nine games this season due to an ankle injury, Ball is seeing career lows in just about every statistical category. He was even benched for the final five minutes of Charlotte's Wednesday night loss to the Indiana Pacers, signaling just how tense things are between Ball and Lee.

The pace of a potential trade is yet to be determined, but it's definitely a situation worth monitoring as the season unfolds.

More Hornets news:

• Kon Knueppel reaches multiple milestones in Charlotte's loss vs. Indian
• Hornets rookie Kon Knueppel nearing Larry Bird-level efficiency
• Hornets lose heartbreaker in final seconds vs. Raptors