Lamelo Ball’s Improvement in a Specific Area Earned Him “Respect” From Opponents, per Hornets All-Star

Early in the season, LaMelo Ball, the electric point guard, became the topic of discussion among the NBA as the Charlotte Hornets came under the spotlight. Despite the injury setbacks that he suffered last year, Ball was a bright spark for the Hornets. Nevertheless, the team was starting to gain speed only to find another hurdle in store when Ball incurred a right ankle sprain against the Orlando Magic on Nov. 26. His influence on the court, particularly in a specific element of playing, has ensured that he gets high regard even from the opponents, as indicated by Charlotte’s All-Star Gordon Hayward.

Hayward praises LaMelo’s three-point precision

With the early struggles of the Charlotte Hornets, teams inquiring about LaMelo Ball’s meteoric rise weren’t spared in that period. Hayward shed light on Ball’s development in an exclusive interview for HoopsHype.com, explaining which specific improvements led him to a great season. When asked about LaMelo Ball’s development in his game that’s allowed him to play arguably at an All-NBA level this year Gordan Hayward said, “The way he was hitting his threes really opened up his game because it makes teams have to respect it. Now he can drive and get in the lane where he can make plays and finish around the rim. His efficiency from three has opened up his whole game”. 

Hayward says that opponents need to respect the skills of LaMelo from beyond the arc. Besides increasing an individual’s score, it goes a long way toward improving the team’s offense. This helps Ball exploit the gaps and make plays or finish at the rim against the opposing defenses that are being forced to extend their coverage.

Ball’s three-point accuracy is now a potential threat for the Hornets. Hayward stated how it has paved the way for Ball to show all of his offensive arsenal. Respect from the opponents is more than just a testimony to Ball’s performance; it also reflects the strategic value that Ball brings to the Hornet players’ overall game.

LaMelo’s return date uncertain after ankle Injury

As Ball sits on the sidelines, recovering from a right ankle sprain, questions loom over the potential duration of his absence. An MRI confirmed a right ankle sprain, and the team announced that Ball will be re-evaluated next week. Early speculations suggested a prolonged absence for Ball, raising concerns among fans and the Hornets’ faithful. Still, there is a slight ray of hope since, officially, no one can tell when he returns.

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Ball can then be back in the field again if re-evaluation is considered positive. Anticipation grows that maybe he will come back in the first game after the injury, which will happen at home against the Toronto Raptors on December 8. Many Hornets supporters keenly look forward to reports on Ball’s recovery so he can resume playing as soon as possible.

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