STRENGTHS

Excellent court vision and feel as a passer
Great size for a point guard at 6'8
First class creativity and confidence
Fast in open floor
Good touch and range on floater
Herky jerky shifty and advanced ball handler
Loves to play in transition
Can make plays out of P&R
Excellent potential and high ceiling
Potential as a scorer off the dribble
Creative finisher around the rim

AREAS TO IMPROVE

Shot selection
Inefficient shooting percentages
Not an explosive athlete
Turnovers
Must get stronger
Effort levels are inconsistent

LaMelo Ball has put himself in consideration to be the top pick in June's draft with his strong play in Australia's NBL. Melo is a gifted and creative playmaker with outstanding passing instincts. His shooting efficiency, shot selection and consistency in his effort must improve, but overall he's a top 5 talent in this draft.

You can make a strong case and say Melo (along with RJ Hampton and Killian Hayes) has faced tougher competition than his peers and his production against grown men and professionals should give him an advantage. Ball has had some impressive games this season wit back to back triple doubles and some ridiculous high level passes and reads, but I'm still very concerned about his shooting and finishing vs NBA length around the rim.

Rafael Barlowe - December 1, 2019

SUMMARY