Overview
- ESPN’s Tim MacMahon said league voices do not view Ball as the face of a winning franchise, a stance echoed by his Hoop Collective co-hosts.
- Ball has appeared in only 105 games across the past three seasons while earning a max-level salary north of $40 million annually.
- Analysts cite defensive lapses and questionable shot selection, noting he shot 33.9% from three while attempting about 11.2 threes per game last season.
- Heavy reports Charlotte is unlikely to trade Ball for now, citing his exceptional popularity and commercial value with younger fans.
- This season’s outlook hinges on Ball’s health and his fit with No. 4 pick Kon Knueppel, as observers note team issues extend beyond Ball and the franchise’s playoff drought has reached nine seasons.