Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has developed into one of the league's premier bucket-getters. One of his most unstoppable weapons has been his ability to get to the free-throw line, although some people around the league have found it frustrating to watch.
Charlotte Hornets star LaMelo Ball should see it as an inspiration, though, in his aspirations to be considered a top-tier player. While he has proven capable of becoming one of the league's best scorers, as evidenced by when he was healthy enough early in the 2024-25 regular season and battling for the scoring crown, he has become more known this year for being a shot-chucker than an elite shot-maker.
Perhaps Ball has to learn how to draw fouls like Gilgeous-Alexander and not force himself into tough shots. The Hornets cornerstone logged a career-worst 40.5 field-goal percentage this campaign, although his injury likely played a role in his shooting struggles. Some fans may not like it, but it could be the step he needs to take to reach his ceiling and steer Charlotte to greater heights.
LaMelo Ball has to see foul-baiting as an art
It's understandable if some folks don't think Melo should emulate the reigning MVP and a former awardee who made a living out of going to the charity stripe: James Harden. After all, there's a reason the strategy has been called "unethical hoops."
The Western Conference Finals battle between the Thunder and Minnesota Timberwolves has even earned the ire of some viewers, especially after Gilgeous-Alexander averaged 14.5 free-throw attempts per game in the first two meetings, both of which resulted in Oklahoma City's win. Game 3 saw him make the trip to the line just four times, and the Wolves took advantage to cut the series deficit to 2-1.
Should Ball reinvent his game to become a free-throw merchant, too? Not at all. That would be a good way to lose some supporters, especially if he tries to sell the call too much like SGA.
But considering that the 2021 Rookie of the Year averaged just 4.9 free-throw attempts this season, he could stand to benefit from raising that number by a couple more shots. He should definitely put his 83.7 percent career shooting from the charity stripe to better use.
That would be easier said than done, though, considering that Ball's health has been a huge concern in recent years. He would also have to bulk up to prepare his body to take the toll of getting hit from time to time. There's also the perception that the whistle doesn't favor the Hornets as much as other teams. On the other hand, maybe the 23-year-old point guard playing like other superstars is what they need to sometimes get the referees to side with them.