The Wildcard: LaMelo Ball, G, Illawarra Hawks
I’ve made it no secret that I view LaMelo Ball as the definitive No. 1 prospect in the 2020 NBA Draft. Recently writing 2000-plus words on why I believe so strongly in that and actually defending Ball, against what seems to be a lot of recent reports of him falling in this draft. I don’t really buy much into pre-draft workouts, to begin with, but much of the stuff around Ball seems a bit unfair and honestly nonsensical.
Many execs, scouts, analysts, writers, and draft gurus are judging LaMelo off of their personal feelings of his father LaVar, what they expected his brother Lonzo to be or what they saw of him as a viral sensation at Chino Hills years ago, that’s just how I feel.
Detroit would likely have to trade up to get Ball and maybe outbid some other teams looking to move up to take advantage of a potential fall for him. This would open up another opportunity for the team to move Griffin in a deal for a higher pick. But there’s also an increasing chance he might fall in their lap at seven, which would be a luxury of spoils for the Pistons.
LaMelo actually has also been training in Michigan for the draft, alongside his manager/trainer, Detroit native and former Piston Jermaine Jackson Sr., possibly indicating a natural fit for both parties. Especially seeing as Ball is probably familiar with the city and organization by now.
This would be the real home-run swing for Detroit to take, but it’s one they shouldn’t be afraid to take because they’re scared to strikeout. Ball would be an absolute steal for them at seven and give a franchise desperately seeking direction, a clear potential face of the franchise to build around. LaMelo would be a stellar selection for the Pistons and is a potential match made in heaven for the franchise.