LaMelo Ball recorded a career-high in scoring last season with 25.2 points per game. What not many may be aware of is that he has increased his average scoring every year, and the good news is that the trend is likely to continue for at least one more campaign.
The Charlotte Hornets star surpassing his 2024-25 season production might seem like a far-fetched idea, considering that this year will see him take the floor with the best cast of teammates he has ever had.
Brandon Miller is expected to likewise raise his average after putting up 21.0 markers per contest last campaign. Collin Sexton's career scoring number is 18.8 points per match, and he has breached the 20-ppg mark twice. So, it wouldn't be shocking if he ends up as one of the Hornets' top bucket-getters. Meanwhile, Kon Knueppel and Miles Bridges could also get in on the scoring action, giving the squad at least four individuals who can take off some of the scoring load from Ball.
To counter that point, we should bear in mind that the 2022 All-Star actually had a bumpy 2024-25 season despite logging a career year in scoring. His efficiency from the field (40.5 percent) and the 3-point land (33.9 percent) was ghastly, and he even earned a shot-chucking reputation for his high-usage play.
Imagine how playing alongside a set of teammates who can relieve Ball of the defensive pressure that hounded him on most nights last year can be beneficial for his game. Even if he attempts fewer field goals this season, a stark increase in his shooting efficiency could still result in a higher scoring average.
Let's also not forget that Melo had a month-long stretch where he registered 31.8 points per contest. That was before injuries started to limit the availability of the Hornets players. So, he is definitely more than capable of being a much better scorer moving forward.
A healthy LaMelo Ball is ready to make more noise
Hopefully, the 24-year-old guard won't have to deal with various or nagging ailments anymore. That has been a significant roadblock in his path to becoming one of the league's most respected stars.
Not only would a healthy campaign be a boon to his scoring numbers, but it should also allow him to flourish more as a playmaker. Ball has already shown flashes of his terrific court vision. Being on the court more often than not would let him display that inherent skill more easily.
So, maybe it's not unthinkable to predict that Ball would average career highs in points and assists by the end of the 2025-26 season.