In his pregame media availability, Hornets head coach James Borrego confirmed that LaMelo Ball would be coming off the bench in his preseason opener against the Toronto Raptors.
Charlotte’s backcourt of Devonte’ Graham and Terry Rozier that had much success last season will retain their positions with Ball set to be the first guard off the bench. Joining them in the starting lineup will be Gordon Hayward, P.J. Washington and Cody Zeller.
Despite coming off the bench, Ball is expected to play a healthy amount of minutes. Prior to the start of training camp, Borrego noted that he intended to play Ball with Graham and Rozier simultaneously at times during the season.
Ball has received plenty of praise during the preseason from his coaches and teammates both. On top of fitting in on the court, Ball’s attitude away from the court has also drawn praise.
Saturday’s game between the Hornets and Raptors is slated to start at 7 p.m.