While the Golden State Warriors’ front office may not be sold on LaMelo Ball, the choice may not be entirely in their hands in Nov. 18’s draft. A recent report from Bleacher Report’s Jonathan Wasserman indicated that the franchise’s owners may force the front office’s hand into selecting Ball.
“A source told Bleacher Report there is a rumor circulating that Warriors ownership could pressure the front office to select Ball if Wiseman is gone. Another source close to Golden State indicates there are both pro-Ball and anti-Ball voices inside the front office.”
There would be a couple of reasons the Warriors owners might want Ball, namely in his marketability. Ball is not only the most popular prospect in the draft but one of the most popular prospects of all-time. Ball will likely have one of the more popular jerseys next season and Golden State’s owners may see those dollar signs. For a team that will be well into the luxury tax next season, those dollars may matter.
The owners may also see Ball as a bridge to the future. The core of Steph Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green is in its final years as competitors and Ball could step in and help the team maintain a high level if he pans out. His high ceiling may again be attractive to a team looking to stay relevant and competitive long-term.
Ultimately, it’s rare for an owner to step in and force the hand of the front office aside from special circumstances. A functioning set of owners hire the front office and trust them to make the right moves. Warriors general manager Bob Myers has proven he can build a contender through the draft so it would be interesting to see his reaction if the owners force their hand.
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