The Minnesota Timberwolves made a blockbuster offseason trade with the Charlotte Hornets to acquire exciting point guard LaMelo Ball, and he's made an immediate impact this season. In Monday night's game against the Milwaukee Bucks, he got off to a hot start, connecting on his first four 3-pointers in five attempts. That also helped him achieve some impressive NBA history along the way.
According to StatMuse, Ball became the fastest player in NBA history to reach 1,000 career 3-pointers, accomplishing the feat in just 311 games. The milestone illustrates his prolific shooting from beyond the arc. Ball has attempted over 2,700 3-pointers during his career, averaging 3.3 makes on 8.8 attempts per game.
His milestone reflects the NBA's growing emphasis on long-range shooting, a trend impacted and popularized by stars such as two-time NBA MVP Stephen Curry. More news: Nuggets’ Jamal Murray Gives Blunt Reaction to Dillon Brooks Groin Kick By halftime, Ball had made five 3-pointers for his team and led all scorers with 24 points. The Timberwolves led 48-47 at the break in a stretch where they'll be without superstar Anthony Edwards.
Just days ago, he nailed six 3-pointers during his team's 127-101 win over the Los Angeles Clippers, finishing with 24 points to go with seven assists, four rebounds, and two steals. After their early playoff exit months ago, Minnesota reshaped its roster this offseason. That included trading Julius Randle and pairing Ball with Edwards for a dynamic backcourt duo.
According to ESPN, Edwards is out for up to two months after undergoing an arthroscopic procedure on his right knee, which has had lingering injury issues. With Edwards out, Ball will have to pick up the slack alongside leading scorer Jaden McDaniels and second-leading scorer Ayo Dosunmu. Ball is averaging 14.4 points, 6.3 assists, and 3.3 rebounds per game this season, with a 39.3% field goal percentage.
Minnesota looked great earlier in the season when Edwards and Ball were playing on the court together. If the 4-3 Timberwolves can stay afloat without Edwards, they could be a serious threat in the Western Conference once their superstar returns. More news: Fever Star Caitlin Clark Draws Strong Criticism Over Unique Nike Shoe Release For more about the Minnesota Timberwolves and NBA, head over to Newsweek Sports.
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