Hornets’ LaMelo Ball trade faces early scrutiny: ‘They’re in shambles’

The Hornets traded LaMelo Ball with the long term in mind. The short term hasn’t been much fun.

Ball is playing well for the Timberwolves, including with Anthony Edwards unavailable. Charlotte, meanwhile, has struggled to generate offense and is already hearing questions about its decision.

Bill Simmons, who initially supported the trade, offered a blunt assessment.

“LaMelo has been pretty good the last couple of games without Anthony Edwards, and Charlotte’s in shambles,” Simmons said, via Zach Roberts of Hornets On SI.

Simmons also questioned whether Naz Reid, a central piece of Charlotte’s return, looks comfortable with his new team.

“He does not seem like he wants to be in Charlotte,” Simmons said.

That’s Simmons’ interpretation, not a reported trade request or a statement from Reid. But it adds to the discussion surrounding a deal that was always going to invite comparisons.

Roberts cites a 99.7 offensive rating for the Hornets, along with a minus-14.2 net rating. Those numbers describe a team having trouble keeping up, let alone winning.

Charlotte also has significant injuries, including to Brandon Miller and Kon Knueppel. That complicates any assessment of what this roster can become.

A few weeks won’t settle whether moving Ball was the right decision. His long-term availability and the value of the assets Charlotte acquired remain part of that evaluation.

Still, the Hornets knew they were giving up a gifted offensive creator. They’re getting an early look at how difficult replacing him can be.

Related: How to watch Cavs at Hornets: TV, streaming, injury report and start time