Comparing LaMelo Ball to other Charlotte Hornets’ rookie point guards

Devonte’ Graham was selected in the 2nd round (#34 overall) in the 2018 NBA Draft and traded to the Charlotte Hornets.

Following his 2017-2018 campaign with the University of Kansas where he was named the Big 12 Player of the Year and a consensus First-Team All American, not much was expected from Devonte’ Graham during his rookie season with the Charlotte Hornets.

At the time, Graham was looked at as a player to be groomed to be the backup point guard to Kemba Walker. Little did we know that the player that Walker took under his wing during the 2018-2019 season would be looked at the following season as a possible replacement.

The bulk of playing time for Graham during his rookie season came on assignment in the G League with the Hornets’ affiliate Greensboro Swarm. Graham played and started 13 games for the Swarm averaging 23.3 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.9 assists, and 1.5 steals while shooting 43% from the field and 38% from three.

With the Hornets, Graham played in 46 games, starting only 3 during his rookie season. He averaged 4.7 points and 2.6 assists while shooting 34% from the field and 28% from three. Graham was inactive or did not play in 36 games during his first year.

While his performance with the Hornets didn’t net many positive results during his rookie season, Graham’s performance in the G League showed the potential he had to contribute to the Hornets in future seasons.

Graham exploded onto everyone’s radar with his play during his second season and is currently an important piece on the present Hornet team. But with the emergence of LaMelo Ball, one would have to question exactly what role Graham will play in the future.