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'He is must-watch TV' - Kevin Garnett makes a case for LaMelo Ball to be an All-Star despite Hornets being amongst the worst teams
© Sam Sharpe-Imagn Images

The Charlotte Hornets started their 2024-25 campaign with a hard-fought win over the Rockets but have since struggled to build momentum. With a 6-12 record, the team seems destined to miss the playoffs for a ninth straight season. However, Kevin Garnett has been thoroughly impressed by LaMelo Ball’s performance, urging the 23-year-old to be named an All-Star this season due to his ‘showtime-esque’ display every time he steps on the court.

How well has Ball played?

The Charlotte Hornets have relied heavily on their 3-point shooting this season, attempting 44.4 per game - the second most in the league. Unfortunately, their strategy has primarily backfired, with the team logging an offensive rating amongst the bottom five in the league so far.

While six Hornets players have logged points in double digits, LaMelo has been a standout, averaging 31.1 points per game, only second to Giannis Antetokounmpo in scoring. Moreover, the 2021 ROY boasts a 12th-highest 6.9 assist per game tally. It is safe to say that in a season where the Hornets have once again fallen short of expectations, Ball has been their only beacon of hope.

Garnett wants LaMelo to be an All-Star

Reflecting on the same on an episode of the ‘KG Certified’ podcast, “The Big Ticket” gushed over LaMelo’s brilliance. Interestingly, apart from the latter’s obvious individual brilliance. Garnett shed light on “Melo’s” flair and exciting playstyle on the court which keeps every fan at the edge of their seat. Ultimately, he dubbed the one-time All-Star the ultimate entertainer that can add immense value to the 2024 ASG.

“You see LaMelo bag? I mean he was coming left and he wanted to get to the three, he threw it right-handed… off the one-leg. LaMelo got a different bag and he’s playing with a different confidence. I hope the league blesses him with an All-Star. He is must-watch TV. I think he’s great when you put him around other young guys. He’s fun to watch,” Garnett said. “I like watching him play.

That being said, for Ball to solidify his All-Star candidacy, the Hornets must at least be in the play-in tournament hunt by the time the game rolls around. If the team remains one of the most depleted squads in the league, the spotlight could shift away from LaMelo’s dazzling individual performances, diminishing the recognition he deserves.

This article first appeared on Basketball Network and was syndicated with permission.

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