Typically, most rookies that enter the NBA have a learning curve that limits how much of an impact they can have on their team. LaMelo Ball, though, has not been a typical rookie. After struggling in his opener, Ball has been nothing short of exceptional this season, leading to him being the frontrunner for Rookie of the Year.
Following Sunday’s game against the Spurs, James Borrego spoke about his rookie point guard, who had just started his eighth consecutive game.
“He’s special,” Borrego said. “He’s a special player. I love coaching him. He’s developing right before our eyes. He’s young. He’s 19. This is new for him and he’s having a major impact on our program, our team, our city, our culture and it’s fantastic for our group. He’s only going to get better from here and we found ourselves a heck of a player, a heck of a person.
“There’s room for growth here, which is exciting. That’s why I get excited every day to come to work is to help mold and shape this kid. That’s the beauty of this job. I love him, I love coaching him. He’s a special guy, a special talent and his teammates love him so all of that is very important for us.”
Ball has energized the Hornets roster and franchise as a whole. His development has been a steady upward climb. After that poor opener in which he set a record for futility, Ball has set multiple records in the opposite manner, most notably becoming the youngest player in league history to record a triple-double.
Injuries to starting guards Terry Rozier and Devonte’ Graham first allowed Ball a spot in the starting lineup and has helped him maintain his spot there. In those eight games as a starter, Ball is averaging 20.9 points, 6.9 rebounds, 6.3 assists and 1.8 assists in 34.4 minutes. He’s shooting 44.6% from the field and 43.9% from 3-point territory as well.
It’s been the latest step forward for Ball as he continues to impress and impact the Hornets and the NBA.
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