Charlotte Hornets: Grading LaMelo Ball’s First Career Preseason

4. Defense and More

LaMelo Ball’s defensive game was nothing to get too excited about. In four games, he averaged 0.5 steals and 0.5 blocks, getting only two apiece in four games. On a positive note, he did get 18 defensive rebounds, averaging 4.5 a game.

One thing that was very concerning was the number of turnovers that LaMelo had in the preseason. He had a total of 14 turnovers, averaging out to be about 3.5 turnovers per game. Turnovers not only lead to points, but they also allow the other team to build momentum, something that the Charlotte Hornets can’t afford.

Something that will probably go unnoticed was how LaMelo wanted to be everywhere on the court. This is a good sign and the makings of a good defensive player. Let’s hope that he can build off of that!

Letter Grade: B-

Overall Preseason Grade: B