The star player of the Charlotte Hornets, LaMeloBall is one of the most exciting players on the court of this generation. Unfortunately, the NBA community has seen very little of him in recent years due to injuries. Not surprisingly, Ball has the potential to be one of the top 15 NBA players if he stays healthy throughout his career.

However, Ball has been in the conversation due to his recent comments about himself, in which he said he was “ready for next season.” However, this did not go down well with many NBA experts and analysts. ESPN reporters in particular Tim MacMahon was one of them when he put the Hornets star in his place and claimed: “His efficiency is garbage.”

I don't know that LaMelo Ball can play winning basketball. I don't know if LaMelo Ball can be the franchise player on a winner. He's got a pretty empty calories game... His efficiency is garbage, his defense is horrific and I don't see a lot of evidence that the guy considers winning to be a priority.

Tim MacMahon on the Brian Windhorst & The Hoop Collective podcast

Last season, 23-24, Ball averaged 23.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, 8.0 assists and 1.8 steals per game while shooting 43.3% of his field shots and 35.5% of his three-pointers in 22 games. Additionally, in 184 games, Ball has career averages of 20.0 points, 6.2 rebounds, 7.4 assists and 1.6 steals per game while shooting 42.7% of his field shots and 37.4% of his three-pointers. It remains to be seen how Ball will perform in the next stages of his career.

LaMelo Ball gives important update on his injury

Charlotte Hornets fans have missed their star player LaMelo Ball for most of the 2023-24 season due to an ankle injury. They hope Ball returns to the roster as soon as possible. However, Ball himself gave an important update on his ankle injury, claiming he “just wants to play basketball” and is fired up for the upcoming season.

My favorite thing to do is play basketball. Obviously not being able to do that is terrible. But I have this summer. I’m just going to take advantage of it and try to get as strong as I can so I can get out there and play.

LaMelo Ball told reporters before the new season

In addition, Ball, who had been out of action since January 26, 2024 due to chronic stiffness in his operated right ankle, was later diagnosed with tendinopathy that ended his season early. He later participated in an NBA All-Star Game, but the problem resurfaced. Now that Ball is fully fit again, it will be interesting to see how the 23-year-old fares in the 2024-25 NBA season.

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