Ben Johns Trade Shocks The Pickleball World
A Major League Pickleball blockbuster move sends ripples through the sport.
The Dead
In a trade described by many as the biggest in Major League Pickleball (MLP) history, Ben Johns—arguably pickleball’s greatest player—has been acquired by the LA Mad Drops.
He moves from the Carolina Hogs, in a deal that includes not only player swaps but also cash and draft‐pick considerations.
The Mad Drops had lost key contributor Quang Duong, and this trade is seen as their signal that they are going “all in” on the 2025 season.
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Why It’s So Big
Talent Acquisition: Johns brings elite skills, consistency, and star power. He’s a multiple-title winner and currently highly ranked in doubles.
Shifting Power: The Mad Drops were not among the top frontrunners this season; this trade significantly raises expectations for them.
Fan Interest & Media Buzz: Transfers of this magnitude in pickleball are rare. This move has already generated major attention from fans, pundits, and sponsors alike. It highlights how the sport is evolving toward more “team” dynamics and franchise-level moves.
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Context & Background
To understand the trade’s magnitude, it helps to know:
Ben Johns has been part of some of the most dominant doubles partnerships in recent years, particularly with his brother Collin Johns.
The Carolina Hogs, their former team, had invested heavily in constructing a competitive lineup, but weren’t able to secure the top titles in recent seasons.
The Mad Drops have been building, but this addition of Johns represents a leap in ambition: turning from promising contenders to serious title threats.
Reactions
Supporters: Many fans are excited, viewing this as a career-defining moment for the Mad Drops. Johns’s move is expected to boost ticket sales, fan engagement, and possibly lead to more investment in the team.
Critics / Skeptics: Some are wondering whether Johns can adapt to a new team environment. Chemistry sometimes takes time. Also, expectations are now sky-high—will this trade backfire if the wins don’t follow?
Peers: Fellow players have expressed curiosity (and some envy). Having Johns on a roster changes how opponents prepare for matchups—with more emphasis on star matchups and pressure situations.
What This Means Going Forward
Mad Drops’ Strategy: With Johns in the lineup, they’ll likely run their roster to maximize his strengths—his nestling around the kitchen, his strategic doubles play, and tactical mixed doubles.
Roster Moves Elsewhere: The Carolina Hogs will need to fill the void left by Johns. They may seek experienced players, make “splash” acquisitions, or invest in younger talent.
Pressure on Johns: Being the marquee acquisition comes with expectations. The outcome—tournament results, leadership, consistency—will be under intense scrutiny.
Impact on the League: This might encourage more trades, more team movement among top players, and greater competitiveness. Might usher in an era where star power moves the dial not just in tennis, but in pickleball too.
Key Stats at a Glance
Metric Johns’s Recent Performance / Credentials
MLP Championship Titles 4 titles with prior teams (BLQK Bears, Seattle Pioneers, Chicago Slice)
Rankings #1 in men’s doubles; strong in mixed doubles; singles also competitive
Past Partnerships Long-standing with Collin Johns; top performances in men’s doubles together with high podium and title percent
The Bottom Line
Ben Johns signing with LA Mad Drops is more than just a roster change—it’s a statement. For the Mad Drops, it’s a commitment to contend; for Johns, it’s a chance to redefine his legacy in a new setting. And for pickleball, it’s another proof that the sport is maturing: more strategy, more business, more drama, and higher stakes.
If you like, I can pull up quotes from Johns and Mad Drops management about how they see this trade, or look at predictions for how it might affect the upcoming MLP season.
