LaMelo Ball and the Charlotte Hornets are 2-1 to begin the 2025-26 season, and it appears that LaMelo is taking a step forward as a player this year. Everyone around the NBA is aware of Ball's incredible talent. However, he is seemingly giving more effort on the defensive end of the floor and playing harder overall to begin the new campaign.
Of course, from a statistical standpoint, Ball is taking care of business -- something he often does when healthy. In the Hornets' 139-113 win over the Washington Wizards on Sunday night, LaMelo recorded a 38-point, 13-assist, 13-rebound double-double. His energy and effort on the defensive end of the floor led to three steals as well.
He was also quite efficient, connecting on 13 of his 25 field goal attempts and five of his 12 three-point shots. In the past, there have been times where Ball continues to shoot despite lacking efficiency, but that was not the case on Sunday.
The Hornets have believed in Ball for a long time -- and their belief is paying off right now. Some of what Ball has accomplished this season doesn't translate to statistics, but it meets the eye test. Ball is playing hard and giving extra effort in games. He seems to be especially motivated this season as the Hornets hope to compete.
The criticism of Ball over the years -- aside from his struggles to avoid injuries -- has focused on him not playing defense. Some have even said Ball is not a winning player despite featuring undeniable talent.
The statistics also tell part of the story, though. LaMelo Ball is averaging 28.3 points, 9.7 assists, 8.3 rebounds and 2.0 steals per outing through the Hornets' first three games. He is also shooting 48.3 percent from the field and 41.9 percent from beyond the arc to begin the new campaign. It's too early to completely overreact -- as mentioned, it has only been three games -- but Ball is displaying promising potential as an all-around player at the moment.
The Hornets need to decide if Ball is still their franchise player. Charlotte could build around him, but they could also turn to players such as Brandon Miller and Kon Knueppel to lead the way. In an ideal situation, Ball will prove that he can win and the Hornets will build around him with Miller and Knueppel helping matters.
Regardless of what the future holds, Ball is certainly playing a quality brand of basketball to begin the 2025-26 NBA season.