As important as any aspect of how a draft prospect excels at the NBA level is where the player lands and how they fit into the team, roster and franchise. If a prospect lands in a poor situation where he can’t develop, no amount of talent will overcome those circumstances.
LaMelo Ball is no exception to this rule in the upcoming 2020 NBA Draft. While he may be the most talented player in the draft, if he lands on the wrong team in the wrong situation, his growth could be stunted.
But what is the best situation for Ball? Is it landing with the Warriors despite their win-now mentality? Is it going somewhere he’ll be the focal point of the offense like Detroit or New York? Or is it landing with a team that also has young pieces he can grow with like Atlants or Cleveland?
Here’s our look at the five best fits for Ball among lottery teams.
5. Washington Wizards
While a team that could still yet make the playoffs, the Wizards would ultimately be a great spot for Ball. And though John Wall is still on the roster, it’s a longshot to expect him to be able to return to anything like his pre-injury form.
With Ball, the Wizards would have a backcourt mate for Bradley Beal if he sticks around for the long-term. If Beal is dealt, Ball can be the face of the next era in Washington. Regardless, he would walk in and easily be the best prospect guard on the roster from day one.
4. New Orleans Pelicans
Ironically, one of the best places Ball could land would be with his older brother, Lonzo. Unlike most other places on this list, LaMelo could head to New Orleans and face no pressure to contribute from day one. He could develop at his own pace, serve as another young backup guard on a roster with a host of prospects and take it slow.
He would also be with perhaps the best mentor he could have in the entire league in Lonzo. The two already reportedly grew closer since the younger brother turned professional and played in the NBL.
3. Detroit Pistons
The Pistons are reportedly high on Ball, who would fill a gaping hole in their lineup. As is, the Pistons do not have a point guard for the future, though they do have a great complementing guard in Luke Kennard. They also have a
2. New York Knicks
