LaMelo Ball delivered an efficient 37-point performance Sunday, guiding the Charlotte Hornets past the Washington Wizards and reinforcing head coach Charles Lee’s message of smarter shot selection and improved playmaking.
“I think it just shows the continued growth and maturity he’s proven all year,” Lee said after the game. The sixth-year guard is attempting fewer shots while continuing to average 40.1% from the field and 36.7% from three, but he has focused on creating opportunities for teammates such as a healthy Brandon Miller and standout rookie Kon Knueppel.
Suspended Players Return Tuesday
Charlotte expects to have forwards Miles Bridges and Moussa Diabate back in uniform Tuesday night in Chicago. Both served four-game suspensions stemming from a February 9 altercation with Detroit, a stretch that pushed Grant Williams and Ryan Kalkbrenner into the starting lineup.
“It’ll be very nice to get two very good players back,” Lee said, while praising those who filled in during the suspensions.
Coby White Close to First Appearance
Guard Coby White, acquired at the trade deadline, has yet to play for Charlotte because of a left calf strain. Lee indicated the 6-foot-5 veteran has progressed through contact practices and could debut during the current road trip, potentially Tuesday in the city where he spent his first six-plus NBA seasons.
Knueppel Reacts to Trading-Card Surprise
Knueppel said he was caught off guard when former Duke teammate Cooper Flagg told him he spent $7,000 on Knueppel’s trading cards over the weekend. “I didn’t realize cards were doing what they’re doing now,” the rookie admitted.
The Hornets continue their trip Tuesday against the Bulls, looking to build on Ball’s recent form and the reinforcements arriving to the rotation.
Source: Hoops Rumors
