NBA Rumors: A living legend of European basketball could replace LaMelo Ball in Charlotte
Dennis Schröder is one of the key names whenever summer comes around and we talk about national basketball teams, clearly being the leader of the best Germany of all time.
One of the most notable moves of the summer was LaMelo Ball's transfer to the Minnesota Timberwolves, ending his six seasons as a player for the Charlotte Hornets.
With the NBA market still active, veteran German point guard Dennis Schröder has emerged as a potential target for the North Carolina franchise, facing a new era after the departure of their former leader.
LaMelo's Legacy in Charlotte
During his time with the Hornets, Ball played 303 games, averaging 20.8 points, 7.3 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per game.
He was named Rookie of the Year in the 2020-21 season and earned his only All-Star selection in 2022. However, Charlotte did not make the playoffs during his tenure with the team.
Hornets' coach Charles Lee recently pointed out in remarks to Roderick Boone of the Charlotte Observer that Ball's influence went beyond statistics, praising his role in building a culture based on hard work, competitiveness, and team unity.
Schröder, an Option to Strengthen the Point Guard Position
After Ball's trade, Charlotte aims to add leadership and experience to their backcourt, with Dennis Schröder becoming one of the names on the franchise's radar.
The German guard, who split the 2025-26 season between the Sacramento Kings and Cleveland Cavaliers, has attracted interest from the Hornets.
Following the Las Vegas Summer League, HoopsHype reported that Charlotte has shown interest in acquiring the player.
According to the report, league sources confirm that Hornets' executive Jeff Peterson remains an admirer of Schröder since their time together with the Atlanta Hawks.
His Contract Situation Could Facilitate a Deal
At 32 years old, Schröder has 13 seasons of NBA experience and has played for multiple franchises.
He began last season with Sacramento before being traded to Cleveland shortly before the February trade deadline.
Reportedly, the Cavaliers are looking to reduce their salary cap, making the German a potential candidate to be moved.
Schröder is under contract until the 2027-28 season after signing a three-year, $44.4 million deal with Sacramento in summer 2025. He will earn $14.8 million in the 2026-27 season and $15.5 million in 2027-28, with the latter season guaranteed only partially.
A Veteran to Guide Charlotte's Young Core
In the 2025-26 regular season, Schröder averaged 10.8 points and 4.9 assists per game.
His numbers decreased in the playoffs to 5.5 points, 2.4 assists, and 1.5 rebounds per game, but he is still regarded as a reliable playmaker due to his experience.
If he joins Charlotte, he could bring stability alongside Coby White, Brandon Miller, and Kon Knueppel, leading the team's offense, assisting in crucial moments, and helping younger players develop in their roles.
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