Tim Connelly and the Minnesota Timberwolves made a high risk, high reward trade for LaMelo Ball, which he explained during an interdictory press conference this week. The Wolves targeted a ball handler in the offseason to alleviate pressure off Anthony Edwards, who was heavily double teamed last season.

"He's a lead guard, he's a real point guard, which is hard to find," Connelly said. "I think you see the impact that he has on his teammates, and I think it's probably well-timed. He's been through a lot. But he's still only 24 years old. He's a guy that we think is going to help elevate us, and hopefully we can help elevate him as well."

Ball was Rookie of the Year with the Charlotte Hornets in 2021 and an All-Star in his second season. After a few injury-plagued seasons, Ball helped lead the Hornets back to the play-in.

"I feel like it's God's plan," Ball said on Tuesday. "I just leave it up to Him, and I just feel extremely blessed."

The Wolves believe Ball will have a compounding effect on their team.

"The way he plays is so much innate feel and connectivity and just ... kind of fun to watch in a lot of ways," Chris Finch said. "And a lot of things he does, you can't really teach or coach."