Golden State Warriors must stop LaMelo Ball
LaMelo Ball is quite clearly the no.1 scoring and playmaking option for the Hornets, and the 2020 NBA rookie of the year has started this year in strong form too.
LaMelo is averaging 18.7 points, 6 rebounds and 6.1 assists per game in the 2021-22 season and is coming off a superb showing against the Trail Blazers. Ball finished the game with 27 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists on Sunday night, shooting 50% from the field and went 4-9 from deep.
However, it is safe to say LaMelo had previously struggled in his previous two games prior to running roughshod over Portland. Ball getting back into form couldn’t have come at a worse time for the Warriors, the Dubs need to ensure they contain Ball if they are to emerge with the win in San Francisco.
The Dubs are loaded with quality perimeter defenders who can match Melo’s length and athleticism. Names like Juan Toscano-Anderson, Damion Lee, Andre Iguodala, Andrew Wiggins, Draymond Green and Gary Payton II could all have a crack at slowing down the rookie of the year.