Hot takes.
Some are good, and some are bad. But Chandler Parsons, who last played in the NBA in the 2019-20 season, spoke out about LaMelo Ball not becoming an All-Star starter. And let's just say Parsons' take was quite controversial.
During an episode of "Run It Back," Parsons and his co-hosts discussed Ball not getting enough votes to start in the 2025 All-Star Game despite placing first in fan voting.
The retired forward said, "It's not a snub because you can't reward a guy on a bottom team like that. The guy is having a heck of a year — his numbers are through the roof. He's averaging 30-plus points, whatever it is. But we're talking an NBA starter — I think you have to be on a relevant team or somewhat of a good team to get that."
LaMelo Ball deserves to start despite Parsons' sentiment
Okay, the Hornets are not the best team by any stretch compared to the rest of the league, but Ball surely deserves a starting spot. His numbers prove it (as Parsons mentioned) and he's at that point in his career (fifth season) where he has become the face of the franchise. Arguably, it all began when he first threw on a Charlotte jersey.
The roster around Ball is not at the point of reaching greater heights yet, but until that happens, the Chino Hills, California native will have to continue standing out in the spotlight amongst the rest of his teammates.
The most interesting part from a voting aspect is that Ball won the fan vote — so logically, why not have him as a starter? The fans want to watch him play, so let the people have it — this all intertwines with the discussion of why the viewership has been down.
There's no way to argue with what the fans want — they are the ones paying for tickets.
Ball will receive the credit he deserves, and one way or another, he already has. The 2021 Rookie of the Year should be a lock to play in the midseason showcase, even though his second All-Star berth would again see him suiting up as a reserve. However, it will be sooner rather than later when he finally secures an All-Star starting spot.
At least that's the hope.