LaMelo Ball has been a standout for the Charlotte Hornets early this season, showing improvement on both ends of the floor. The star guard has already posted several strong performances, including a 38-point, 13-rebound, 13-assist triple-double against the Washington Wizards earlier this week.
On Tuesday night, Ball made franchise history on the defensive side. In a close matchup against the Orlando Magic, Ball recorded two steals, moving him into 10th place on the Hornets’ all-time steals list. He passed former Charlotte guard Terry Rozier to reach the milestone.
Ball now sits just eight steals behind Brevin Knight for ninth place and could catch Kendall Gill for eighth before the season ends. His defensive activity has been notable this year—Ball has tallied nine steals through the team’s first five games, including four multi-steal outings and two games with three steals.
Ball’s career high for steals per game in a single season came during the 2023–24 campaign, though injuries limited him to just 22 games. His best full-season average came in 2021–22, when he averaged 1.6 steals per game en route to his first All-Star selection.
If the Hornets hope to take a step forward this season, Ball’s defensive growth could be key. Alongside newly acquired guard Collin Sexton, Charlotte’s backcourt has the potential to anchor a more balanced team. With plenty of offensive firepower already in place, improved defense could help the Hornets push for a playoff spot.
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