The Charlotte Hornets recently faced off against the Oklahoma City Thunder, delivering a stunning defeat with a score of 124-97. This match marked a significant moment in the NBA season. Brandon Miller led the team with 28 points, while Kon Knueppel contributed 23 points, and LaMelo Ball added 16 points.
Kendrick Perkins Questions LaMelo Ball’s Future
In a recent episode of The Road Trippin’ Show, analyst Kendrick Perkins suggested that it may be time for LaMelo Ball to consider a trade. Perkins noted that the narrative surrounding the Hornets is changing, with Miller and Knueppel emerging as key players.
Tanking Concerns Affecting Trade Value
Perkins revealed that he received an anonymous text claiming the Hornets might be deliberately lowering Ball’s value to facilitate a trade. The message indicated a strategy to limit Ball’s playing time to around 25-28 minutes per game. This tactic implies that a lower statistical output would result in trading a player perceived as less valuable.
- The text read: “Let’s play Melo about 25-28 minutes a game so his numbers won’t be high.”
- This strategy aims to avoid trading a two-time All-Star with diminishing stats.
Current Performance and Playing Time
Ball’s early season performance showcased him averaging 33 minutes per game over the first six games. However, after injuring himself, he missed six out of the following seven games. As a result, Knueppel’s minutes increased. His exceptional performance has raised concerns about how Ball’s return might impact Knueppel’s scoring numbers.
Currently, LaMelo Ball is averaging 19.7 points, 7.9 assists, five rebounds, and 1.2 steals in a career-low of 28.1 minutes per game. Despite a reduction in minutes and scoring opportunities, his assist and rebounding figures remain solid, along with an improved shooting percentage from beyond the arc, with 8.8 attempts per game.
Future Implications
According to analysts, Ball’s trade value is perceived to be declining. Even an increase in playing time might not significantly alter this trend. The Hornets are at a crossroads, and decisions regarding Ball’s future will impact the team’s direction in the season ahead.
