While it may just be two days into the preseason, LaMelo Ball is certainly leaving a mark on his new head coach. James Borrego was asked on Saturday which players have left good impressions on him through the first practices of the year. Though Ball’s name was mentioned last, he was one of four names brought up.
“…LaMelo, boy, I mean, if you’re not watching him when he has the ball, you better get your eyes up because that ball’s coming,” Ball said. “He’s got elite playmaking ability. Get your hands ready, because he’s going to find you.”
None of the other three names Borrego mentioned as standout performers should come as a surprise, the first two being incumbents Devonte Graham and Terry Rozier and the last being marquee addition Gordon Hayward.
“I’m really encouraged by the development that I’ve seen in Terry and (Devonte),” he said. “I see their leadership. They understand our system and they’ve really grown in their playmaking abilities. I’m really proud of them. They’ve really worked hard. They’ve got synergy. It’s like they’ve hit the ground running. It feels like we were just in Miami and they’re ready to play again together.
“And Gordon’s just been a real calming presence for us. Just having his professionalism, just his spirit out there on the floor has been a great addition to our group.”
With practice not open to the media, even in the limited spells they typically would be allowed, the only access available to the public is the video posted to social media from the Hornets. While Ball has featured in some of those videos, it provides little context.
The first time the public will be able to see the Hornets will be on Saturday in the first preseason game against the Raptors.
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