Western Conference scout: 'I don't think you can win anything with LaMelo Ball'

Mack Baltes

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Western Conference scout: 'I don't think you can win anything with LaMelo Ball' image

The Charlotte Hornets have struggled to find consistent rhythm this season, as they sit 12th in the Eastern Conference with a 6-15 record. The Hornets have relied heavily on rookies Kon Knueppel, Ryan Kalkbrenner and Sion James as they've dealt with plenty of injuries.

Brandon Miller is now healthy again, but has missed 15 games due to injury. The same is true for LaMelo Ball, who has missed seven games. Grant Williams and Josh Green have also been sidelined, as the two have yet to debut this season.

Amid injury concerns, LaMelo Ball's future with the franchise has been up in the air, as reports have claimed that he's open to being traded. 

According to NBA insiders Tim MacMahon and Bobby Marks, Ball's trade value doesn't seem to be all that high due to his effort and demeanor.

"Nobody has ever questioned the talent," a West executive said. "But he's just so unserious."

"He's definitely one of the top three most talented guards in the league," a West executive said. "But every [scouting] report I write on him has the word 'Globetrotter' in it."

A West scout remarked: "They all have their warts, but I don't think you can win anything with LaMelo."

"Can I trust LaMelo in the playoffs and games that matter late in the season?" An East executive said. "We just don't know."

This is high criticism of Ball, but given the performance of the Hornets over the years, it's reasonable to ask if Ball can be a top player on a winning team. Charlotte has never made the playoffs with Ball, and haven't seen the postseason since the 2015-16 season, a drought that lasts 10 years.

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Staff Writer