The Charlotte Hornets made a big-time addition in the 2020 NBA Draft with the No. 3 overall pick, selecting LaMelo Ball. It was a move that was rumored to be of interest to the Hornets leading up to the draft. Reports even broke that Michael Jordan was all about bringing Ball to Charlotte.
Since Kemba Walker chose to leave the Hornets for the Boston Celtics last offseason, fans have been hoping that the franchise could bring in another dynamic guard to replace him. Devonte' Graham stepped up in a big way last season and will form a good duo with Ball. But, there is no question that Ball will take over as the face of the franchise immediately.
Last season while playing overseas in Australia, Ball ended up averaging 17 points per game to go along with 7.6 rebounds and 6.8 assists in 12 games. His shooting numbers were a bit rough at just 37.5 percent from the floor and 25 percent from the three-point line. Those numbers will have to improve, but his raw potential shows a potential star.
Standing in at 6-foot-7 and a shade over 180 pounds, Ball is a big body for the point guard position. He has great ball skills, can pass at an elite level, and his shooting is better than the numbers suggest.
All of that being said, let's go ahead and take a look at three bold predictions for LaMelo Ball in his rookie season with the Hornets.
3. His Three-Point Shooting Percentage Rises Dramatically
Speaking of his three-point shooting, the Hornets are confident that Ball will be able to figure things out. He has always been known for his ability to shoot the ball. While his numbers overseas were not good, they will improve dramatically in his rookie year with the Hornets.
When everything is said and done, Ball will shoot at least 35 percent from the three-point line. He has the potential to be an even better shooter than that. Ball will put in the work necessary to become a consistent perimeter shooting threat for Charlotte.
2. LaMelo Ball Will Come Close To Averaging A Double-Double
Part of this has to do with the fact that Ball is going to see a high usage rate on a fairly bad basketball team. Charlotte will be leaning on him heavily. Ball will rise to the occasion and will come close to averaging a double-double in his rookie season.
As the Hornets grow and add quality pieces around Ball, they will slowly grow into a fringe playoff contender. That isn't going to happen in the 2020-21 season, but Jordan and company can build over the next couple of years.
LaMelo Ball will end up averaging 15.5 points per game and 8.8 or more assists per game. His passing is a strong suit and that will show right off the bat. With playing time, Ball's scoring numbers will rise, but his rookie year will still show the star potential that led to him being the No. 2 overall pick.
1. He'll Win Will Win The Rookie of the Year Award
Finally, the Hornets are going to see Ball end up winning the Rookie of the Year award. Anthony Edwards will give him a run for his money, but Edwards is not going to have as big of a role with the Minnesota Timberwolves as Ball will have with the Hornets.
Ball is going to have the ball in his hands a lot this season. He will be asked to initiate the offense and be aggressive right off the bat. There are going to be some growing pains throughout the season, but the Hornets will love what they see.
This isn't saying that Ball will have the better career when compared to Edwards. However, in their rookie seasons, LaMelo Ball will get the best of the No. 1 overall pick.
Follow Us
Subscribe