LaMelo Ball NOT a #1 OPTION? Is he a Cade Cunningham or a Tyrese Haliburton?

Doug Branson had a LaMelo Ball revelation at the gym, and it's time to break it down. Is LaMelo’s future more like Tyrese Haliburton’s—leading as a facilitator with elite efficiency—or is he on a path to be the high-usage, No. 1 option like Cade Cunningham? This decision isn't just about LaMelo; it will shape how the Charlotte Hornets build their roster moving forward.

Walker Mehl and Doug debate whether the Hornets should surround LaMelo with more offensive weapons to maximize his playmaking or if he needs to fully embrace a high-scoring role. They also discuss how Myles Bridges’ resurgence has shifted the offensive balance and whether Brandon Miller could be the true secondary scorer the team needs.

Plus, it’s time for the Locked On Hornets stat draft update! Who’s leading the pack with their preseason over/under picks? Did Doug’s bets on LaMelo and Brandon Miller pay off, or did Walker’s predictions hold strong?

Finally, they break down a new advanced stat, ESPN’s “Net Points,” and what it says about the Hornets’ best and worst contributors this season. Hint: Some names at the top (and bottom) might surprise you.

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Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com

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Top 35 Hornets Nicknames of All-Time According to Doug Branson: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-nicknames-in-hornets-franchise

Top 35 Hornets of All-Time According to Walker Mehl: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-players-in-hornets-history

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