The Charlotte Hornets are so much better with a healthy LaMelo Ball

The Charlotte Hornets have looked a lot better since LaMelo Ball has returned from injury.

Since returning, the Hornets have gone 2-1 with the Ball back in the starting lineup. In those three games, Ball has averaged 16.0 points, 6.3 assists, 6.7 rebounds, and 2.3 steals per game. Ball’s playing time has increased with each game.

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This season, Ball has averaged 19.0 points, 6.2 assists, and 5.9 rebounds per game as a starter. Ball has shot 46% from the field and 42% from deep in the starting lineup.

The Hornets were lacking a playmaker in their starting unit while Ball was out. The team asked Terry Rozier to do a lot as a passer, while also leaning on Devonte’ Graham when he returned from injury.

Ball’s recent game against the Pistons proved why he is so much of an asset. He seemed like the Hornets’ go-to guy in the fourth quarter, which opened up many opportunities for Rozier.

Ball’s size is a problem, many point guards have a tough time defending him. His pass-first mentality helps the Hornets get easy buckets, while also making him an unpredictable threat.

Luckily for Charlotte, the team could be fully healthy by next week. The Hornets will need all hands on deck if they want to make the playoffs; this fully includes Ball continuing to ball-out.

The Hornets have a special player, and it’s easy to see how much he was missed while he was out. Charlotte will take on the Chicago Bulls at home on Thursday night. They lost their most recent matchup against the Bulls on April 22, but Ball could play a factor in the Hornets picking up a win and continuing the playoff push.