When the Charlotte Hornets selected LaMelo Ball third in the 2020 NBA Draft, they were hoping for a superstar who could lead them to the promised land. Ball has shown flashes of brilliance, as he’s an extremely talented player.
Yet, the Hornets have constantly struggled during the season, missing the playoffs each season Ball has been their leader.
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The problem hasn’t necessarily been Ball’s play or his leadership. Charlotte’s roster hasn’t given Ball much help, which isn’t good. The main thorn in the Hornets’ side has been the health of Ball.
The star guard has struggled to stay on the court for the Hornets. Ball only appeared in 51 games during his rookie season, but his averages of 15.7 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game were good enough to earn him Rookie of the Year honors.
Ball’s second year was promising. He averaged 20.1 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 7.6 assists while being named an All-Star. Ball also played in 75 games.
Since that season, Ball has only played in 36, 22, and 47 games over the next three seasons. If the Hornets continue to rely on Ball, he’ll have to remain healthy.
Ball gets some help
Ball has basically been a one-man show when he has been on the floor for the Hornets. It’s hard for any one player, no matter how talented they are, to lead a team to the postseason by themselves.
Ball may be getting some quality help. Kon Knueppel was selected fourth by the Hornets in this year’s NBA Draft and he could be the perfect fit next to Ball.
Knueppel is a 6’7″ wing who can really shoot the ball. He was one of two players in any conference to have shooting splits of 47.9%, 40.6%, and 91.4%, while scoring in double figures (14.4 ).
Knueppel played alongside Cooper Flagg at Duke. So he’s used to playing with another talented player. On the court with Ball and Brandon Miller, who is expected to up his game this season, Knueppel could be the piece of the puzzle that helps get Charlotte to the postseason.
Can that happen? Yes. Will it happen? It all falls on the health of Ball. Hopefully, Ball can play in all 82 games, proving his doubters wrong and giving the city of Charlotte something to cheer about.
