The Charlotte Hornets are set to begin the first of five preseason games in Boston against the Celtics. Eyes will be squarely on LiAngelo Ball as fans are eager to see him get a shot on the biggest of stages.
He has completed training camp with the Hornets after sending shockwaves throughout the NBA world when it was announced he signed a non-guaranteed free agent contract.
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The question remains, is this thing for real? Or, is it a ploy solely to keep younger brother, LaMelo happy?
Related: What LiAngelo Ball signing with the Hornets means
It will be hard to answer this in just a few preseason games. No matter how LiAngelo made (or makes) it, the fact remains, he’s here. The rest is inevitably up to him.
For fans, I would caution not to get your hopes up. As much of a feel-good story this is, the Hornets have an obligation to get ready for a long NBA season. Appeasing fans by using him as a prop won’t do them any favors.
Not only that, LiAngelo is currently number 20 on the priority list of players. With a typical regular season rotation for teams around 8-10 players, the primary action LiAngelo should expect is as a spectator.
LiAngelo Ball had a few impressive moments in his brief time with the Hornets. He’ll look to add to his resume this preseason. Photo by Stephen R. Sylvanie — USA TODAY Sports
So fans, control your emotions. There’s no need to throw social media hissy fits. Fans of LiAngelo should understand he has been made a priority in some degree. His standing with the organization and the Greensboro Swarm is likely where he will see increased playing time.
Last year with the Swarm, LiAngelo averaged just 13.2 minutes per game. I expect that number to double.
However, if your plans are to tune in during the preseason to see a lot minutes, it’s probably not going to happen.
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