Hornets HC James Borrego explains why LaMelo Ball is playing limited minutes

LaMelo Ball has hit a bit of a rough patch in the midst of his rookie campaign with the Charlotte Hornets. However, his struggles might have hit a low point on Friday.

During a 123-110 loss to the Chicago Bulls, Ball had seven points, two assists, two steals and one rebound. However, he also had a season-high five turnovers off the bench. 

Hornets head coach James Borrego provided a brutally honest critique of Ball's recent struggles, saying he needs to be better off the bench. 

"Last night, poor decision-making, and I think it affected him on the defensive end," Borrego said on Saturday, according to Rick Bonnell of The Charlotte Observer. "If you're turning the ball over five times in 16 minutes, that ain't gonna cut it for me. If you're doing that on the offensive end, you better be bringing something defensively."

Charlotte has lost its last four games, and Ball is minus-53 on the court in that span. Perhaps his struggles have something to do with his father's recent comments.

LaVar Ball, recently spoke with TMZ Sports about his son's role on the Hornets, coming in off the bench for Devonte' Graham, and he says the 19-year-old isn't happy about it despite not showing it on the outside. 

In 15 games this season, Ball is averaging 11.5 points, 6.4 rebounds and 5.9 assists per game while shooting 40.4% from the field and 32.4% from deep. The numbers are good off the bench, but Graham provides a more steady option as the team's starter. 

Ball won't be a starter until he can show some consistency. So, if he's really that upset about playing off the bench, he'll have to step his game up.