LaMelo Ball features the ceiling of an MVP candidate. He has been limited by injuries at times during his career, however. As a result, Ball has only made one All-Star team (2021-22). Regardless, Ball's talent speaks for itself. With that said, turnovers have been a problem at times.
The Charlotte Hornets star has averaged 3.3 turnovers per outing for his career. As a rookie in 2020-21 -- when he took home NBA Rookie of the Year honors -- Ball recorded a career-low 2.8 turnovers per game. He has not averaged below 3.3 turnovers per contest since. In 2024-25, Ball recorded 3.6 turnovers per outing across 47 games played.
When the best player on your team struggles in the turnover department, it can impact the entire roster. Ball has a great handle and he's an excellent passer, but sometimes he attempts to force passes.
One underlying statistic suggests there is reason to believe Ball is improving when it comes to taking care of the basketball, though. For his career, Ball has recorded a turnover percentage of 14.7 percent. Before the 2024-25 campaign, Ball had never recorded a mark below 14.3 percent. In 2024-25, though, LaMelo finished the season with a 13.1 turnover percentage.
Meanwhile, his 35.9 usage percentage was a career-high. The Hornets were heavily involving Ball in offensive plays while he was on the floor, yet he was still able to record a career-best turnover percentage. Although his turnovers per game did not improve, Ball is seemingly taking steps forward when it comes to taking care of the ball.
Star point guards on bad teams are going to have turnover concerns. They are asked to lead the way while opposing defenses develop schemes to contain them. Ball dealt with defensive pressure and even double-teams at times. As the Hornets continue to improve, limiting turnovers will become a much more reasonable task for Ball as well.
LaMelo Ball's primary focus in 2025-26 will be to stay on the floor. The Hornets would love to see what Ball can do at this point in his career in a full season. Charlotte is trying to build a contender around him.
If Ball is able to stay on the floor and impact the Hornets this season, fans will want to pay attention to his turnover numbers. As Ball continues to improve that area of his game, the Hornets will only benefit as they hope to contend soon.