In the world of sports card investing, the key to success often lies in identifying players who are undervalued relative to their potential and the market's future outlook. Right now, I believe LaMelo Ball and Paolo Banchero offer a unique opportunity for collectors and investors looking to capitalize on their breakout seasons and the disparity in card values compared to other rising stars. When you look at their current performance and compare the market prices of commonly traded cards, such as PSA 10 Silver Prizm rookie cards, I believe the potential for growth is clear.
Card Values Relative To Their Peers: A Strong Case for LaMelo and Paolo
One of the most compelling reasons to buy LaMelo Ball and Paolo Banchero cards now is the significant disparity in value compared to other popular young stars. Let’s break down the current PSA 10 Silver Prizm market caps for a few notable players.
Despite being at the forefront of their respective drafts and producing at a high level, both Ball and Banchero's market caps are far lower than their peers. For instance, LaMelo Ball’s market cap of $162K is less than one-tenth of Anthony Edwards' $1.53M. While I don’t believe Ball should be valued in the same light as Edwards, the difference in pricing is too great. Similarly, Banchero's market cap of $267K is significantly lower than that of Ja Morant or even Zion Williamson, who has yet to show the same level of sustained success as Banchero.
LaMelo and Paolo’s Breakout Year
LaMelo Ball, now in his fourth NBA season, is continuing to build on his reputation as one of the most exciting and talented players in the league. The 2020 NBA Rookie of the Year has been an offensive juggernaut for the Hornets this season, and his per-game statistics reflect that growth.
Ball has firmly established himself as an All-Star to All-NBA caliber player, thanks to his elite court vision, scoring ability, and playmaking. He’s not only been the centerpiece of the Hornets' offense but has also improved his efficiency across the board. With a larger focus on honing in costly turnovers and wild threes, LaMelo has the raw ability to become one of the 5-10 best players in the league and have the Hornets competing in the upper half of the Eastern Conference. It’s may not be clear right now that LaMelo and Brandon Miller are the franchise cornerstones in Charlotte, but I believe by the end of the season, it will be very apparent.
Paolo Banchero on the other hand followed up a stellar sophomore campaign with a 5-game stint to open up the season that had analysts and NBA GMs ready to put him among the leagues best forwards. Unfortunately, following that stretch, Paolo tore his oblique and has not played since.
While this has put a damper on his All-Star and All-NBA hopes, it has brought his cards back to an investable level following a sizable spike during that stretch. In addition, Banchero is clearly one of, if not the most well-rounded young player in the league and has proven he’s capable of evolving his game. With his versatility and the potential to be the cornerstone of a young and hungry Orlando Magic franchise for years to come, Banchero’s cards are poised to appreciate as his game develops and Orlando’s overall success grows. Like Ball, his current card prices don’t fully reflect his rising stock in the league.
Conclusion
With both LaMelo Ball and Paolo Banchero having breakout seasons and their current card values being relatively low compared to peers like Anthony Edwards, Zion Williamson, and Ja Morant, now may be the perfect time to invest in their cards. These two players not only have the potential to become superstars but also represent a clear opportunity for collectors and investors looking to get in on rising talent. As their careers progress and their respective teams continue to improve, I believe their card values will rise.
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