LaMelo Ball entered the offseason expecting to remain with the Charlotte Hornets and his trade to the Minnesota Timberwolves was unanticipated.

"I kind of got the impression that LaMelo didn't see this coming," said Brian Windhorst on the Pat McAfee Show.

The Hornets never shopped Ball on the market and instead listened to trade offers and were compelled by the Wolves' package of a 2033 first round pick, three pick swaps, three second rounders and Naz Reid.

Ball was happy with the Hornets, especially following their second half surge this past season that led to the play-in.

Ball will now join one of the NBA's biggest superstars in Anthony Edwards with clear championship aspirations in a tier in the Western Conference immediately below the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs.

Despite the surprise of the trade, Ball is excited for the opportunity.

"My understanding is LaMelo Ball is very excited to go play with Anthony Edwards to try to win championships," said Shams Charania. "He knows the task at hand. Those two guys, from my understanding, are friends. They've had communication in the recent past."