Prior to his season in New Orleans, one of Lonzo Ball’s goals for his season was to become a more vocal leader, an attribute he recognized he did not have after spending two seasons as the point guard in Los Angeles. While he still has a way to go in that aspect, at least one teammate noticed the improvement.
In an interview with USA Today’s Mark Medina, Pelicans guard JJ Redick spoke about the growth the trio of Brandon Ingram, Lonzo Ball and Zion Williamson made this season.
“Each guy is different. But the disposition of having Brandon be that go-to scorer and he came in hungry. You could see it right away with the talent. He took almost every big shot for us last year. He hit some game-winners and had some monster games where he carried us down the stretch. Lonzo, I think you saw his growth as a player and a person. I saw a lot of growth as a leader this year. Then for Zion, again, I think it’s about consistency, being in the lineup and being available and being in shape. His skill level and his talent is an anomaly. There’s not many people in the history of the game that are able to do what he does with his size. For him, there’s no ceiling on what he can become as a player.”
Redick was particularly complimentary of the young trio in the interview, noting that the franchise should build around those three moving forward.
It’s noteworthy that Redick has seen the strides Ball has made as a leader this season. Ball is still a relatively quiet, unassuming player but has improved in that regard since his rookie season. Playing next to Rajon Rondo in his sophomore campaign appeared to spark something and ignite his desire to improve in that regard.
Ball already is able to control so much of an offense just through his passing. If he can become a vocal leader as well, it could really elevate his game to the next level.
