The Charlotte Hornets were defeated by the LA Clippers 113-90 on Thursday, but Lamelo Ball seems to be finding his footing.
He finished with 18 points, six rebounds, and seven assists against a good defensive team. This was one of his more efficient games since returning from a fractured wrist that sidelined him for a month. The Hornets need all their guys back for a deep run, but Ball's health will be vital for immediate success.
Despite dropping this game to the Clippers, the Hornets are still in control of the eighth seed out east over the Indiana Pacers. Both teams share the same record, but the Hornets hold the tiebreaker between the two.
The play-in tournament seeding will continue to tighten up after each of these final couple of games. If the Hornets manage to win at least one game, they can seize control of the eighth seed and play an underwhelming Boston Celtics team. However, the key for Charlotte will be how fast LaMelo Ball can regain the form he once had before the injury.
He was once the clear favorite for the Rookie of the Year award, and thanks to his play, the Hornets were seeded at the four seed. Clearly, it is impossible to get back to that seed, but getting back to that level of play will be vital in the play-in tournament.
Before the fractured wrist, Ball was averaging just under 20 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists as a starter. He was instant offense, whether he was scoring the ball or making plays for his teammates, he proved he was light years ahead of the opposition. Flatly put: LaMelo Ball and the Hornets were creating something special.
Since returning, his chemistry and timing seem a bit off with his teammates, but he was a lot more comfortable against the Clippers on Thursday night. Passes seemed to be made with no effort again, which is a great sign for Charlotte. Once they get Miles Bridges back from health and safety protocols, this team could go back to being lethal in transition.
If Ball continues to improve, Hornets fans should feel confident about not only locking up the eighth seed but beating the Celtics in the first play-in game and securing a spot in the postseason.
A motivated LaMelo Ball back with his Robin in Miles Bridges should be enough to power past Boston. Sure, it will be a tightly contested game, but Charlotte has enough talent to stun the Celtics and force them to stay in the play-in tournament.
Meanwhile, Charlotte can prepare to participate in the first postseason since 2016.
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