Since the Minnesota Timberwolves traded for LaMelo Ball, it's been clear that he's the perfect co-star for Anthony Edwards. But when you peel back all of the layers, everything about Ball's game makes him an ideal complement to Edwards.
Why LaMelo Ball is a perfect fit alongside Anthony Edwards
Of course, the main thing is that Ball is an elite playmaker, which is Edwards' biggest flaw and has been an element that the Wolves' offense has lacked in recent years. All the same, LaMelo is a stellar perimeter scorer who can add some needed shot creation alongside Edwards. Relevantly, last season Ball ranked in the 98th percentile for playmaking talent and the 97th percentile for overall gravity per Basketball Index.
Truly, it's LaMelo's ability to command gravity as both a playmaker and scorer that makes him a lethal pairing with Ant. Crucially, LaMelo is comfortable playing off-ball, which is vital since Edwards is a prolific isolation scorer.
It gets better, though, as LaMelo fits Edwards' timeline perfectly at age 25. Given the Wolves' lack of draft capital, it's frankly a miracle that they found a co-star who checks all of these boxes.
Defense is one concern that some detractors have with LaMelo's fit. Look, he's not a good defender, but he's not a total liability, as some would argue. Plus, let's be honest: few star guards are truly elite defenders. In any event, the Wolves have enough defensive infrastructure to cover up for his weaknesses.
As such, there shouldn't be any major concerns about his defense, especially given his immaculate offensive fit.
LaMelo can help the Timberwolves reach their championship aspirations
The Timberwolves have had a considerable amount of success, making two conference finals in the past three seasons. They've impressively done so despite not having ample secondary creation or playmaking alongside Ant. In the past three playoffs, this lack of secondary creation and lead playmaking has cost the Wolves in the highest-leverage moments.
With LaMelo solving this flaw, the Timberwolves could reach another level, and they genuinely have a chance to win the championship.
Sure, LaMelo has yet to appear in the playoffs, but his fit is so perfect on paper, and he has more than enough talent to be a championship-level second option. Moreover, the Wolves will have their hands full with the San Antonio Spurs and Oklahoma City Thunder.
Regardless, they have a true puncher's chance largely thanks to LaMelo transforming their past roster flaws and fitting perfectly alongside Edwards. Beyond him and Ant, the Wolves have a well-rounded roster. Jaden McDaniels and Rudy Gobert are elite defenders. McDaniels and Jonathan Kuminga are a high-level forward duo. Ayo Dosunmu is a great sixth man. While I've mostly focused on how Ball will elevate Ant, there's no denying he will also elevate everyone on the Wolves' roster.
Simply put, the Timberwolves have the juice needed to win a championship, and Ball transforms their roster, particularly given his fit alongside Edwards.
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