LaMelo Ball’s Strategic Shift Propels Hornets’ Winning Streak

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — LaMelo Ball, the Charlotte Hornets‘ dynamic point guard, has refined his playing style in 2025, leading to a noticeable uptick in the team’s performance. Known for his high volume of three-point attempts, Ball has recently adjusted his approach, focusing more on driving to the basket and drawing fouls, which has contributed to the Hornets winning five of their last eight games.

This season, Ball has been leading the NBA with an average of 12.6 three-point attempts per game, surpassing even Steph Curry. However, since the start of January, there has been a noticeable shift in his gameplay. The frequency of his three-point shots has decreased, while his free-throw attempts have increased, indicating a more aggressive approach to penetrating defenses.

“We have asked him to play a little bit faster, try to play with more pace,” said Hornets coach Charles Lee. “Our attack guy needs to be more aggressive to try to flatten the defense and put us in more advantage situations, and he’s flourished in that environment. He’s been able to get himself to the basket and the free-throw line a bit more.”

Despite the shift, Ball continues to lead the league in usage rate and remains a significant threat from beyond the arc. His ability to adapt his game has not only enhanced his scoring efficiency but also his role as a facilitator. Ball’s improved playmaking has been crucial, especially with his ability to execute precise passes to teammates like Miles Bridges and Moussa Diabate, creating scoring opportunities and keeping the defense guessing.

“Obviously when you’re so talented, there’s a lot put on you in terms of scoring,” Lee added. “But other times, you have to help the other guys kind of keep up with you, and facilitate, and put them in positions to be just as successful.”

The Hornets have shown marked improvement this month, ranking 15th in offensive rating and 6th in defensive rating over the last eight games. This has propelled them to the 10th best net rating in the league during this period. The team has managed this despite challenges such as injuries and roster changes, including the integration of new player Josh Okogie.

As the Hornets continue their nine-game home stand, Ball’s leadership and evolving gameplay will be critical against some of the Western Conference‘s top teams. His recent performances suggest that the Hornets could be a formidable opponent as they aim to climb the standings and make a push for the playoffs.