The Charlotte Hornets deployed a unique strategy during their game on Thursday against the Indiana Pacers. Head coach Charles Lee opted to utilize star point guard LaMelo Ball off the bench.
This was a huge gamble, as the Hornets were playing against a dangerous Pacers team that was motivated to end its 13-game losing streak. The decision did not end in a win as the Pacers ended their losing streak by beating the Hornets 114-112.
Ball gives the Hornets' reason for not starting him
Despite not starting, Ball still managed to play 27 minutes after shaking the probable tag before the game. He had to play a new role on Thursday, so they could circumvent his minutes restriction due to his injury. Ball made the most of his minutes, considering he scored 20 first-half points.
He ended the game with 33 points, eight assists, and three steals. Ball was hooping, as he even made seven three-pointers to lead the Hornets. Unfortunately, Ball made mistakes late in the game, which ultimately contributed to the Hornets' loss to the Pacers.
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The Hornets wanted Ball out there late in the game because they anticipated it will be a tough game. It ended up being the right decision because Ball was available later in the game. He was arguably the best player on the floor, but it did not end well because of some mistakes in the clutch.
"I didn't start today, so I could finish the back end. I take full responsibility; that was my fault. That last lob could've dribbled that out and some silly possession before that. The last pass, I should've shot that instead of putting Bull in that position," Ball said after the game.
"Me and the coaches all talked, and had convos, meetings, and go from there."
During Ball's career with the Hornets, he has often struggled with injuries, and this season, he has been dealing with some soreness in his right ankle. He was deemed able to play against the Pacers, but the coaching staff made sure to inform him of his minutes restriction.
They concluded that playing him off the bench would be the best approach. It worked out for the most part, but they did still lose the game in a thriller against the Pacers.
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