Grading all four Charlotte Hornets picks in the 2020 NBA draft

Charlotte Hornets pick No. 3: Lamelo Ball

It is safe to say that the Ball family dance to the beat of their own drum. Lamelo Ball is no different in this case. He came out to Australia to play for the Illawarra Hawks in the NBL as a way to enter the draft. To say that he was spectacular would be an understatement.

Ball averaged 17.0 points, 7.6 rebounds, 6.8 assists, and 1.6 steals in 31.3 minutes per game. Unfortunately, his campaign was cut short to just 12 games due to injury but the talent was on display for all to see.

While some may question the relevance of his stats playing in a league where the quality is sometimes in question, Ball was playing against hardened professionals. NBL Teams target imports, trying to make it difficult on them, especially if they are younger. You have to rise above it.

The fact that Ball was able to rise above this and showcase his talent means that he is special., Where the Hornets have lacked star power this season, he will make them captivating viewing, even if they are losing every game, which they won’t.

Ball has shown that he is a tremendous play-maker who can pass with both hands equally. His scoring relies on awkward floaters and he is not a good 3-point shooter. However, once he has NBA coaches to fix his shot mechanics, this should improve.

Ball is the most talented player in this draft, and also is one of the youngest, turning 19 in August. As he grows into his body and into his game the Hornets are going to be relevant again. This may take a couple of years but Ball will be fun to watch.

Draft Grade: A+