The acquisition of LaMelo Ball gives the Hornets a boost in confidence

The Charlotte Hornets defeated the Dallas Mavericks 110-105 on MLK Day. The Hornets’ confidence grew over the last three games, which they happened to win. This is their first three-game winning streak of the season. It all starts with their franchise player, LaMelo Ballwho bought the game on both sides of the ball.

“I’m really just trying to lock in and do whatever it takes to win,” Ball said. His efforts on both ends of the floor were evident. Besides just playing passing lanes, he was able to stay in front of offensive linemen on the defensive side of the ball. That show has been contagious lately.

Miles Bridges says LaMelo Ball’s three-game winning streak

After winning three straight games, Miles Bridges feels good about the team’s morale and confidence.

“It feels good to win,” Bridges said. “That’s the main thing. We just want to keep building this and keep it going.”

After winning those games, the Hornets are 11-28, and each win has created a confidence-building effect. A win is medicine for any team struggling in the middle of the season, especially a young team dealing with a slew of injuries throughout the season.

Bridges also talked about LaMelo Ball’s defensive impact.

“He definitely stepped up the defense.” LaMelo has been thinking about just wanting to play defense all year. As long as he continues to want to play defense, he’ll be good at it. He is 6-7, long – he is good.”

LaMelo Ball on the team’s recent defense

Without Luka Doncic suiting up for the Mavericks, Charlotte was only able to insert Kyrie Irving at defensive end on a clearance. Irving still finished with 33 of his points, but you’ll take that in the win.

Ball talked about the Hornets’ defensive blowout against Dallas.

“I feel almost like what you just said, just buying and being more aggressive – going for 50/50 balls and getting everyone locked in.”

Having Mark Williams as the anchor helps with his ability to switch shots around the rim and change some pick-and-roll situations. It’s nice to have a versatile big on that end of the floor who can always clean up some mistakes that perimeter players might have.

If Charlotte can continue that intensity on that end of the floor, it could lead to more wins during the home stretch of the season. We’re almost at Game 41, which marks the halfway mark. The playoff picture is shrinking, and whatever Charlotte had on the outside for a play-in berth is, too. Although the Hornets will be without Brandon Miller long term, at least they have other guys healthy and ready to play.