New Orleans Pelicans: What is Lonzo Ball’s future role and position?

If you like to argue, come over to New Orleans Pelicans Twitter and make a declarative statement about the future of Lonzo Ball.

In one corner you have the Lonzo fans, who feel he is being misused in New Orleans and that he should be a pass-first point guard running an offense.

In another you have the “Lonzo is a wing” crowd, who believe his future is as a defensive wing who can shoot the 3-pointer and defend multiple spots.

There is a whole other group that doesn’t think Lonzo Ball has a place on the New Orleans Pelicans and should be traded for someone who is a better fit.

I find myself agreeing with all of them at times, as Lonzo Ball is one of the most polarizing and difficult to judge players I’ve ever covered in the NBA.

But what should his future role and position be with the New Orleans Pelicans? Let’s break it down.

New Orleans Pelicans: Lonzo Ball should be a point guard running the offense

Most of Lonzo Ball’s biggest fans think that his ultimate role is as a pass-first point guard who uses his high basketball IQ and slick passing to run a team.

This makes sense, as Ball entered the league as a guy known for these things in addition to his broken shot.

Stan Van Gundy never saw him that way and immediately gave more of the ball handling responsibilities to Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, who usually initiate the offense one way or another.

By trying to turn Lonzo Ball into something that he is not, the Pels are not taking advantage of his strengths. He has plus size, sees the floor well and could be an elite point guard if given the opportunity.

Lonzo Ball should be averaging closer to ten assists per game than the 4.8 he is getting now and the Pelicans are not using him correctly. Or are they?