The Charlotte Hornets have been such an impressive team this season, especially with their offensive performances. LaMelo Ball has been at the center of their success as the playmaker and primary engine of the offense.
However, Hornets head coach Charles Lee thinks that Ball is leading the team in many ways. This includes the defensive side of the game, which is not what people expect from someone like Ball. It has become such a big deal for the Hornets, as they are now always a tough matchup.
Lee loves what he is seeing from LaMelo Ball's defense
The Hornets have a high-octane offense, as they are 10th in offensive rating. They are in the middle of the pack defensively, as they are 17th in the defensive rating. After being a mediocre defensive team in the past, this is a massive improvement for the Hornets.
Lee has done a great job of leading his players to become the best versions of themselves. At the same time, he has motivated certain players to stand out in areas they are not known for. This includes Ball, who has become a leader for the team's defensive system.
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Since Ball has never been known as a defensive savant, the Hornets are playing so much better with him locked in on both ends of the floor. It appears that his teammates and even the coaches have noticed. Lee himself has said that he loves what he is seeing from Ball on that end.
"He definitely deserves all the flowers. I think that he has transformed his game. He continues to evolve to do things that help the team win, and it starts with his defensive activity. He has done a great job of buying into that side of the floor, committing to it, and bringing a consistent level of engagement," Lee said ahead of the Hornets' game against the Mavericks on Tuesday.
As he is playing so much better on defense, Ball is still contributing to the Hornets' offense. It is a big deal that he is thriving on both ends of the floor, which has continued to make them one of the best players in the Eastern Conference.
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