The Charlotte Hornets may not be participating in the playoffs, but the team and its fans should be monitoring the games because there might be lessons that could help the Hornets reach that stage in the future.
The first-round series between the Detroit Pistons and New York Knicks has several nuggets of learnings for Charlotte. For one, the Pistons' ascent in the Eastern Conference standings after spending several years at the bottom is commendable. The way they have built the roster around Cade Cunningham should serve as an inspiration for the Hornets' front office.
Speaking of Cunningham, it's impressive how the Most Improved Player award finalist has already figured out how to be a winner despite being in only his fourth season in the NBA. Maybe Ball can learn a thing or two about the star point guard, who may have already surpassed him at this point.
Cade Cunningham's leadership has been on full display in his playoff debut
One of the key lessons the 23-year-old floor general has exhibited so far is the way he has handled himself and led his teammates despite facing the Tom Thibodeau-helmed Knicks' physicality.
A case in point was when Pistons rookie Ron Holland got tangled up with Karl-Anthony Towns while battling for a loose ball. The big man was called for a transition take foul. However, Holland didn't take kindly to being inadvertently tripped and stood over Towns, who fell to the floor. Cunningham shoved his teammate away, averting any unnecessary escalation, which wouldn't have been shocking because of how chippy the series has been.
It was just one example of Cunningham's blossoming leadership, a quality that people want to see more out of the more carefree and laidback Ball. Of course, there's no need for the Hornets star to play, move, or act like Cade.
However, if Charlotte were to become a playoff contender, it needs a figurehead who can rally the squad and keep the players in check when things get out of hand. Should Ball be the one to assume the role? Not necessarily. But it would be nice if a staple in the rotation were to take on that responsibility.
Miles Bridges has appeared to have stepped up as a leader, as evidenced by his statements during the Hornets' exit interviews. However, he isn't even assured of a roster spot in Buzz City once the 2025-26 regular season opens because some pundits believe he is one of the organization's valuable trade assets. So, Ball must evolve as a leader to boost Charlotte's chances of competing with the East's big boys.