LaMelo Ball, Collin Sexton have been inseperable as Hornets aim to take next steps

The Hornets are looking for more than highlights from LaMelo Ball this season. They want leadership.

Ball, the face of the franchise and its highest-paid player, has been challenged to take the next step in guiding the locker room. Coach Charles Lee said that new addition Collin Sexton could play a big role in helping Ball get there, according to the Roderick Boone of the Charlotte Observer.

Sexton, Lee noted, has raised the level of intensity around the gym — and he and Ball have been inseparable after practices, building chemistry and talking constantly.

Lee even sat down for dinner this week with Ball and team president Jeff Peterson to lay out expectations, review summer impressions and talk personal growth. Ball, meanwhile, has put in the work physically, setting personal records in the weight room as he continues to add strength and build up his base.

As for Brandon Miller, the Hornets see a second-year leap even after his sophomore campaign was cut short by wrist surgery in January. Lee pointed to Miller’s rehab and overall focus, saying the forward has emerged as a more vocal leader.

Miller has taken other young players under his wing, led film sessions and provided direct feedback to Nick Smith Jr. and others throughout the summer.

The Hornets may not be ready to climb into the East’s elite just yet, but with Ball and Miller both being pushed into leadership roles, they’re betting on growth from within.