LaMelo Ball's underrated strength could lessen the concerns about his major flaw

While I'm a massive believer in LaMelo Ball's fit with the Minnesota Timberwolves, I do understand having concerns about his defense. Ball has struggled to be positive due to his thin frame and inconsistent engagement off the ball. 

Thankfully, the 6-foot-7 guard isn't a complete zero on defense. He has adequate size to hide on low-usage wings, and more importantly, Ball is a great positional rebounder. For his career, LaMelo has averaged 5.7 rebounds. Additionally, Ball ranked in the 99th percentile for defensive rebounding percentage (for his position) per Databallr. When projecting his defensive role and impact, this must be considered. 

The Timberwolves' lack of frontcourt size and a natural power forward is a clear issue. Without a doubt, one of the biggest specific problems it can present to the Timberwolves is rebounding. Look, Ball isn't going to solve all of these possible problems, but he can help ensure the Timberwolves' rebounding stays afloat while simultaneously limiting some of the (valid) concerns about his defense.

In a recent article, Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic mentioned the value of Ball's rebounding while also noting the possibility of Anthony Edwards guarding opposing fours. 

"The Wolves may just have to be unconventional, at least in the early going. Finch said that also meant Edwards could see time guarding some of the more physically imposing power forwards in the league, like Zion Williamson or Jaren Jackson Jr. It also means that the Wolves will likely lean on Ball, one of the better rebounding point guards in the league, to help them on the glass," Krawczynski wrote. 

LaMelo Ball's defensive fit might not be as shaky as it seems

To be clear, the chances of Ball being a true positive force on defense are slim. He simply hasn't been that throughout his career. Regardless, he has proven not to be a total negative.

In terms of purely making a positive impact on defense, rebounding is at the top of this list for Ball. As established, he is an elite positional rebounder. Ball's ability to constantly pressure the glass helps him survive on defense and creates easy transition opportunities. 

Furthermore, Ball is a solid screen navigator, ranking in the 73rd percentile for overall screener defense per B-Ball Index. This, paired with his size, allows Ball to defend opposing wing shooters at a respectable level. 

LaMelo should also benefit from the Timberwolves' defensive infrastructure. He has never played with a rim protector like Rudy Gobert, nor has he played with a perimeter defender at Jaden McDaniels' level. The Timberwolves' recent success has been built around their defense. 

Ball is stepping into a situation where he understands that he'll have to hold his own on defense. All of these factors could help LaMelo improve on defense. 

Again, though, the number one area in which LaMelo can (and has) make his impact felt is rebounding, and given the Timberwolves' uncertain frontcourt, this could be vital. In the end, some of the concerns with Ball's defense might not be so severe due to their roster construction and his rebounding abilities. 

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