LaMelo Ball Tops Trae Young Ja Morant Trade Value

Merlin sees Zach Lowe telling The Bill Simmons Podcast that LaMelo Ball would have the highest trade value among Ball, Trae Young and Ja Morant. Lowe said "it's not close" and a GM told him you "can't teach" Ball's height and floor vision. All three players have seen their stock fall amid injuries, off court issues and questions about fit. Merlin notes Ball is still the youngest and has averaged more than 20 points, seven assists and five rebounds across four seasons, so the upside is real. The counterspell is durability and a large deal that runs through 2028 29 with about $130.7 million remaining, which limits Charlotte's return. Teams may gamble on upside but not at any price.