Hornets’ Collapse Coming At The Worst Time For LaMelo’s All-Star Case

NBA: Charlotte Hornets at Washington Wizards

Dec 19, 2024; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball (1) is assisted by a team trainer after being cut against the Washington Wizards in the second quarter at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Geoff Burke/Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

⭐ The Big Picture: The Charlotte Hornets hit a new low with a 123-114 loss to the Washington Wizards, a team known for its historically bad record this season. Charlotte’s cold shooting from deep (8-43) and lackluster defense painted a grim picture, despite LaMelo Ball’s stellar 34-point performance.

⭐ Key Stats:

  • Hornets’ 3-point shooting: 22% over the last three games.
  • LaMelo’s game: 34 points, 13 assists, but only 3-18 from three.
  • Wizards’ win tally: Just their fourth this season.

✨ What I’m Watching: LaMelo Ball’s All-Star prospects. Despite Charlotte’s struggles, Ball is one of only four players in the NBA averaging 30 points per game. However, team record often weighs heavily in voting, making his path uncertain.

🚀 My Take: It’s clear: talent is returning to the lineup, but effort and focus are fading. The Hornets need to rediscover the grit that kept them competitive earlier in the season. The frustration from Charles Lee’s muted reactions is palpable—fans need to see urgency, and so do the players.

🔔 What’s Next: The Hornets face the Sixers in their next matchup. With Brandon Miller’s potential return and a chance to regroup after this embarrassing loss, it’s do-or-die time for Charlotte to salvage their season.

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