Swarm and Sting
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3 positive outcomes for the Charlotte Hornets in 2023-24

By James Mastrucci

Oct 11, 2017; Charlotte, NC, USA; A view of the Charlotte Hornets logo at half court prior to the game against the Boston Celtics at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 11, 2017; Charlotte, NC, USA; A view of the Charlotte Hornets logo at half court prior to the game against the Boston Celtics at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /
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CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – SEPTEMBER 26: LaMelo Ball #1 of the Charlotte Hornets poses for a portrait during Charlotte Hornets Media Day at Spectrum Center on September 26, 2022 in Charlotte, North Carolina. 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 Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – SEPTEMBER 26: LaMelo Ball #1 of the Charlotte Hornets poses for a portrait during Charlotte Hornets Media Day at Spectrum Center on September 26, 2022 in Charlotte, North Carolina. 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 Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) /

3. LaMelo Ball comes back better from his season-ending injury

This right here is what will make or break the Charlotte Hornets’ season in 2023-24. A healthy LaMelo Ball that is not only able to return to form but finds a way to be better than he was before. Ball building upon the positives last year while working to eliminate the negatives would pay dividends for the Hornets this upcoming season.

An ankle fracture ended Ball’s highest-scoring season up to this point (23.3 points per game). Though his efficiency did tumble, it was not entirely his fault. Charlotte saw a handful of players go down with injuries last season, making their attempts at winning games much more difficult. Last season, Ball found himself in eight different starting configurations, with only 14 games played in their most frequent lineup. This is hardly an ideal situation for anyone, no matter how talented or dominant they are.

It has never been a question of talent. Lamelo Ball is a talented player who has shown to be one of the better scorers in the league. It is about staying healthy and being more efficient. An improved and healthier supporting cast should lead to better results moving forward. Additionally, the expectation of Ball being ready for the start of the regular season should lead to a much better campaign in 2023-24.

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