What would make LaMelo Ball unstoppable?

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JANUARY 08: LaMelo Ball #2 of the Charlotte Hornets shoots over Josh Hart #3 of the New Orleans Pelicans during a NBA game at Smoothie King Center on January 08, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) /

Ball is a crafty, finesse finisher around the rim. His court awareness and ability to deliver timely passes keep opposing big men on their toes. However, Ball is still growing into his NBA body, and his relative lack of upper body strength can sometimes limit his finishing ability, particularly his ability to finish through contact. Listed at 180 pounds, Ball has plenty of room to grow in terms of putting on good weight and adding functional strength.

Ball experienced a drastic growth spurt before entering the NBA and subsequently suffered a wrist injury during his rookie campaign. While these factors have certainly had a part to play in his current frame, Ball’s physical growth will only serve to boost his growth as a basketball player.

Ball’s lack of strength and his tendency to avoid contact are factors in his career average of 3.2 free throws per game. Ball ranked just 39th in free-throw attempts amongst qualified guards in 2021 and 41st in 2022. If he can increase his free-throw attempts per game, he will begin accumulating points at a higher rate and put even more pressure on opposing defenses.

The scary part is that LaMelo Ball still has room for improvement

Ball has clearly hit the ground running in his professional career thus far. If he can master the mid-range game, add strength to finish around the rim, and get to the foul line at a higher rate, the sky will truly be the limit for Ball’s career.

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