Charlotte Hornets guard Josh Green spoke with Grant Afseth of RG about how he got into the team and how LaMelo Ball’s playmaking helped him before his recent injury. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Ball had a left ankle sprain and will be re-evaluated in a week. The injury occurs at an unfavorable moment for the Hornets, given that Ball has been the driving force behind their offense this season, averaging 28.2 points and 7.3 assists per game.
Ball’s presence on the court has played a key role in helping Green, who joined the Hornets earlier this season, find his rhythm.
“Offensively, I’ve been working on trying to find my rhythm on this team—driving and whatnot,” Green shared. “But really, it’s been a little bit of everything I’ve been trying to work on.”
Despite Green only playing 30 games with Ball, the 22-year-old guard quickly realized the exceptional talent and confidence Ball brings to the court. Green highlighted how Ball’s elite playmaking and court vision make the game easier for his teammates, describing him as ‘ very fluent.’
“He reads the game so well at a young age,” Green said of Ball. “He’s a very fluent, confident guard, and it’s fun to play with him. He plays with supreme confidence, trusts his teammates, and makes the game easier for everyone around him.”
Green even sees some similarities between Ball and his former teammate Luka Doncic.
The ability to slow down the game, analyze defenses, and create opportunities for both themselves and their teammates is a rare trait shared by Ball and Doncic.
“I think both of them have a high level of patience,” Green explained. “They do a great job of slowing the game down and seeing things develop.”
Despite Ball’s absence, Green maintains optimism about the Hornets’ potential as they navigate. He believes the Hornets can thrive by playing fast, staying confident, and trusting each other, emphasizing their youth and athleticism.
“Just continuing to play in transition—we’re a young team, and I think that works in our favor,” Green said, “Also, staying confident and trusting each other.”
Green’s move to Charlotte has been a learning experience, but he believes that playing for the Hornets will elevate his game further. He expressed gratitude for the lessons learned and the chance to grow alongside players like Doncic while reflecting on his time with the Mavericks.
Green’s focus in Charlotte is to help the Hornets achieve their high ceiling and contribute to their success. The team’s competitiveness will depend on Green’s adaptability and positive mindset as they wait for Ball’s return. Green is ready to be a crucial member of the Hornets’ journey to build something special with a young core and dynamic playmaker in Ball at the helm.
