After a poor performance in his first NBA game, LaMelo Ball has been not just a solid rookie but a solid player for Hornets. Over the 11 games since his debut, including Wednesday’s loss to Dallas, Ball has averaged 12.7 points, 7.5 rebounds and 6.2 assists on 42% field goal shooting and 34.6% 3-point shooting.
Because of that strong spell, Ball has thrust himself into the front of the Rookie of the Year race. Ball currently is third in the league in PER among all rookies as well as third in points per game, first in assists and first in rebounds.
Ahead of Wednesday’s game, Dallas coach Rick Carlisle spoke about Ball, tabbing him as the early favorite for Rookie of the Year.
“He’s terrific,” Carlisle said. “Right now, with the way things look, he looks like Rookie of the Year to me. He’s getting it done statistically, their team is winning, he’s got energy, he’s got a vibe, he’s got swagger. If you like watching players that play with flair, he’s right up there. He had a huge game against us. We have great respect for him. That’s about all I can say about it – the guy is getting the job done on the floor.”
While it’s early in the season, Ball has established himself as one of the frontrunners for Rookie of the Year. In a draft class that lacked many impact players, Ball’s main competition statistically is Tyrese Haliburton of Sacramento and James Wiseman of Golden State.
If Ball can continue his strong play, he could be set for a second-consecutive Rookie of the Year award.