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NBA Draft: Why LaMelo Ball is the definitive No. 1 prospect in the 2020 class

By Evan Wheeler

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND - NOVEMBER 30: LaMelo Ball of the Hawks in action during the round 9 NBL match between the New Zealand Breakers and the Illawarra Hawks at Spark Arena on November 30, 2019 in Auckland, New Zealand. (Photo by Anthony Au-Yeung/Getty Images)
AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND - NOVEMBER 30: LaMelo Ball of the Hawks in action during the round 9 NBL match between the New Zealand Breakers and the Illawarra Hawks at Spark Arena on November 30, 2019 in Auckland, New Zealand. (Photo by Anthony Au-Yeung/Getty Images) /
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NBA Draft
NBA Draft prospect Lamelo Ball (Photo by Mark Kolbe/Getty Images) /

Although I do view Ball as the best prospect in this class, I do understand why Minnesota or Golden State would pass on him with the top two selections. I’m not sure he’s a stylistic fit for either franchise given the personnel both currently have. But that doesn’t mean he’s not deserving to be the No. 1 pick or that another team picking lower, shouldn’t trade up to No. 1 selection to get him.

In my opinion, he’s probably easily the most versatile offensive player in this draft, the best playmaker, and has much more potential on defense, than most give him credit for.

Playmaking

LaMelo Ball is the best passer in the class, showcasing the ability to create on multiple levels. He has incredible vision combined with great size for the point guard position at six-foot-seven and sporting a 6-foot-10 wingspan. LaMelo has a smooth handle that allows him to create effortlessly off the dribble, whether as a marksman in the pick and roll or in transition. He has the flair of Jason Williams or Bob Cousy, plus the accuracy and vision of Steve Nash combined with the height and size of Penny Hardaway.

LaMelo behind the back pass between defenders to teammate rolling to rim
LaMelo behind the back pass between defenders to teammate rolling to rim /

That’s not to say Ball’s game is directly identical to any of those players, but there is elements of each to his game, which makes his passing weaponry so unique and valuable.

LaMelo PNR, beautiful lob pass to Boone on roll, hook pass
LaMelo PNR, beautiful lob pass to Boone on roll, hook pass /

For a team looking for a primary playmaker who can take on most of the ball-handling duties offensively, LaMelo would be their best option. He can immediately help a team’s pace and their pick and roll offense, while also adding the rare skill of making passes or plays that maybe no one else in this class can make.

LaMelo insane 3/4 court one handed pass, crazy placement, effortless pass - standing still when throws it
LaMelo insane 3/4 court one handed pass, crazy placement, effortless pass - standing still when throws it /

Ball is going to get his teammates easier shots and make just about anybody around him better offensively from day one I believe at the next level.