Just 12 games into the season, LaMelo Ball has, at times, been hailed as the best rookie in the NBA based on his ability to influence games at every end of the floor. The production by Ball, who came off the bench, was not noticed by Dallas Mavericks head coach Rick Carlisle.
Ball and the Hornets went against the Mavericks on Wednesday for the second time this season. However, after defeating the Mavericks on Dec. 30, the Hornets were unable to complete the season ‘s sweep 2-0 after a loss, 104-93.
The third overall selection put four points, seven rebounds and five assists in 25 minutes off the bench. His three-game climb of slowing down in at least 10 rebounds, which was a Hornets rookie record, came to an end as Dallas took control of the tournament and led from start to finish. end.
Prior to the meeting, Carlisle received some praise for Ball based on his performance to this point of the season.
“It’s awful,” said Carlisle. “Right now, the way things look, it looks like Rookie of the Year to me. He does it statistically, their team wins, he has energy, he has a baby, he is a swagger. If you enjoy watching talented players play, that ‘s okay. He had a big game against us. We have great respect for him. That’s all I can say about it – the man is doing the work on the floor. ”
In the previous meeting, Member scored 22 career-level points and eight rebounds to impress the Hornets. Since then he has tied that 22-point mark, which happened Saturday when he became the youngest player ever to record a double.
Ball’s appearance has allowed the Hornets (6-6) to start hard this season.
Before losing on Wednesday, the team had posted their longest winning streak since April 2019 at four games. He has given the team a huge boost where they have been promoted and that has resulted in some amazing performances, something that continues as he develops the more each game.
If a Member can continue that production, he may be the next Rookie of the Year winner…