Debates about player superiority are as compelling as the games themselves. Recently, former All-Star DeMarcus Cousins added fuel to one such discussion by proclaiming that LaMelo Ball, the rising star of the Charlotte Hornets, is better than Damian Lillard, the perennial All-NBA guard of the Milwaukee Bucks.
LaMelo Ball has been on a tear this season for the Hornets, averaging a career-high 31.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 6.9 assists per game while Damian Lillard has posted 25.9 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 7.8 assists per game while trying to keep the Bucks afloat in a turbulent season. No doubt, both guards are playing excellent individual basketball and are bonafide All-Stars.
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at their skills, dissecting everything from scoring and playmaking to defense and leadership. Is Cousins’ bold claim backed by the numbers and on-court performances, or does Lillard’s proven resume still place him firmly ahead? Let’s find out.
Scoring – LaMelo Ball
LaMelo Ball has taken significant strides in his scoring game this season, averaging 31.1 points per game while shooting 43.0% from the field and 35.6% from three-point range. His ability to score at all three levels is evident, particularly in transition, where he thrives due to his court vision and quick decision-making. While his overall scoring volume trails Damian Lillard’s on a career level, Ball’s efficiency in creating opportunities for himself and others has been noteworthy this season.
In comparison, Damian Lillard is averaging 25.9 points per game on 44.1% shooting, with a decent 36.1% accuracy from beyond the arc. Clearly, LaMelo’s youth and versatility allow him to close the gap in impact. Unlike Lillard, who leans heavily on his jump shot, Ball’s ability to score in the paint with floaters and crafty finishes gives him a unique edge in diversifying his offensive output.
Shooting – Damian Lillard
LaMelo Ball’s shooting from distance is unspectacular at 35.6% from three, with an emphasis on catch-and-shoot opportunities and step-backs. While Ball has improved his mechanics and consistency, he doesn’t yet match Lillard’s gravity as a shooter, who can single-handedly bend defenses to his will. Lillard’s veteran savvy in shot selection and ability to maintain high efficiency under heavy defensive pressure makes him the superior marksman.
In contrast, Damian Lillard remains one of the league’s premier shooters, currently averaging 3.3 made threes per game on 36.1% from deep this season. His ability to extend his range well beyond the three-point line makes him a nightmare for defenders, forcing them to guard him tightly even near half-court. His confidence and precision in pull-up and contested shots are unmatched, with Lillard ranking among the top players in catch-and-shoot and off-the-dribble efficiency.
Athleticism – LaMelo Ball
LaMelo Ball’s athleticism is showcased through his agility, quickness, and ability to make plays in transition. While he isn’t an explosive leaper, his fluid movement allows him to maneuver through defenses with ease. This season, Ball has excelled at converting difficult finishes around the rim, contributing to his 51.2% field goal percentage on two-pointers, which is exceptional for a guard of his build. His combination of speed and control makes him a dynamic presence in fast-break situations, where he thrives in exploiting mismatches.
Damian Lillard, on the other hand, is more reliant on his strength and burst rather than overall athleticism. Though he’s still capable of explosive plays, Lillard’s athletic prime has waned slightly. While Lillard’s compact build gives him an advantage in absorbing contact, LaMelo’s youthful athleticism gives him the nod in this category.
Defense – LaMelo Ball
LaMelo Ball has emerged as a solid defender this season, using his 6’7” frame and 6’10” wingspan to disrupt passing lanes and contest shots effectively. He’s averaging 1.1 steals per game, and his defensive versatility allows him to guard multiple positions. Ball’s ability to anticipate plays and rotate effectively has made him a key piece of the Charlotte Hornets’ improving defense. While he still needs to add strength to handle physical matchups, his defensive IQ and effort level have been impressive.
In contrast, Damian Lillard has never been known for his defensive prowess. This season, his defensive rating of 116.4 highlights his struggles on that end of the floor. While he occasionally steps up in critical moments, Lillard’s smaller stature (6’2”) limits his ability to contest shots and defend larger guards. LaMelo’s superior size, length, and ability to generate turnovers give him a clear edge in this category.
Handles – LaMelo Ball
LaMelo Ball’s ball-handling has been a standout aspect of his game this season, allowing him to orchestrate the offense and create for himself and his teammates. His ability to change speeds, execute tight crossovers, and maintain control in traffic makes him one of the league’s most exciting young playmakers. Ball’s 6.9 assists per game demonstrate how his handles directly contribute to his team’s scoring opportunities, as he consistently breaks down defenses with ease.
Damian Lillard, while also an elite ball-handler, has a more methodical style. His handles are precise and functional, designed to set up his deadly pull-up jumper or get to the rim. However, Ball’s creativity and flair in his dribbling give him a slight edge, as he uses his handles to not only score but to elevate the play of his teammates in dynamic ways.
Clutch – LaMelo Ball
LaMelo Ball has shown flashes of clutch ability, and while he hasn’t hit legendary status like Lillard, he is shooting a better percentage in clutch situations (51.7% Effective field goal Percentage). This is a comparison about stats this season, and in this case, Ball has been more clutch than Lillard.
Damian Lillard is synonymous with clutch performance, earning the nickname “Dame Time” for his late-game heroics. This season, Lillard is shooting 40.0% in clutch situations (Effective field goal Percentage), consistently hitting big shots to secure wins. His ability to create his own shot under pressure, coupled with his confidence, makes him one of the most feared players in crunch time.
Leadership – Damian Lillard
LaMelo Ball, while showing growth as a leader, is still developing in this area. As the face of the Charlotte Hornets, he’s taken on more responsibility this season, but his leadership style leans more on his playmaking than vocal guidance. While Ball’s impact is undeniable, Lillard’s years of experience and proven leadership in high-pressure situations give him the edge.
Meanwhile, Damian Lillard has long been regarded as one of the NBA’s best leaders, both on and off the court. His transition to the Milwaukee Bucks has showcased his ability to adapt and bring cohesion to a new team, despite the struggles he has faced. Lillard’s poise, accountability, and work ethic inspire his teammates, making him a cornerstone of any organization. His leadership is especially evident in close games, where his calm demeanor helps rally his team.
Basketball IQ – Even
Both LaMelo Ball and Damian Lillard possess high basketball IQs, albeit in different ways. Ball’s IQ shines through his creativity and ability to anticipate plays before they happen. This season, his 6.9 assists per game and knack for making highlight-reel passes demonstrate his understanding of how to exploit defensive weaknesses.
Lillard’s basketball IQ, on the other hand, is evident in his shot selection and ability to manipulate defenses to create scoring opportunities. His effective field goal percentage of 53.3% this season reflects his efficient decision-making. Both players excel in reading the game, making this category too close to call.
Impact – LaMelo Ball
LaMelo Ball’s all-around impact on the Hornets is undeniable. Beyond his scoring and playmaking, his defensive presence, ability to energize the team, and court vision elevate those around him. Charlotte has seen a noticeable improvement in their offensive flow and defensive intensity when Ball is on the court, and their record is a putrid 42-94 when he doesn’t play overall.
Damian Lillard’s impact is primarily offensive, as he continues to be a prolific scorer and a clutch performer. However, his defensive limitations slightly diminish his overall influence on both ends of the court. Ball’s two-way contributions and his ability to control the game in multiple facets give him the edge here.
Efficiency – Damian Lillard
LaMelo Ball, while effective, lags slightly behind in efficiency, with a true shooting percentage of 52.3%. While Ball’s playmaking balances out some of the inefficiencies in his scoring, Lillard’s elite shot-making and consistency give him the upper hand in this category.
Efficiency has always been a hallmark of Damian Lillard’s game, and this season is no different. His true shooting percentage of 44.1% and effective field goal percentage of 53.3% reflect his ability to score efficiently, even with a high usage rate. Lillard’s shot selection and ability to convert tough looks under pressure set him apart as one of the league’s most efficient guards.
1-On-1 Game – Even
LaMelo Ball counters with his creativity and unpredictability, using a mix of crossovers, hesitation moves, and crafty finishes. His 3.8 points per isolation possession isn’t far behind Lillard’s, and his size gives him an advantage when matched against smaller guards. While Lillard’s veteran savvy gives him an edge in scoring, Ball’s versatility balances the scales, making this category a draw.
In isolation situations, both players excel, albeit in different ways. Damian Lillard uses his combination of tight handles, shooting range, and physicality to create space and score efficiently. His 3.6 points per isolation possession rank among the league’s best this season, showcasing his ability to dominate defenders in one-on-one scenarios.
Final Result
LaMelo Ball vs. Damian Lillard 6-3
The LaMelo Ball vs. Damian Lillard debate highlights a thrilling clash between the established excellence of a seasoned superstar and the emerging brilliance of a rising phenom. While Damian Lillard is the epitome of proven greatness—renowned for his clutch heroics, scoring mastery, and leadership—LaMelo Ball’s blend of athleticism, creativity, and two-way impact ultimately gave him the edge in this analysis.
Ball’s advantage in categories like defense, athleticism, and overall impact outweighed Lillard’s strengths in scoring efficiency, clutch moments, and leadership. At just 23 years old, Ball’s ceiling appears boundless, making his triumph in this comparison not just a nod to his present abilities but also a testament to the transformative player he is becoming.
While Lillard’s legacy as an all-time great point guard is firmly secure, LaMelo Ball’s superior performance in this analysis showcases why he is already carving out his path as one of the NBA’s brightest talents.
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