Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball might be in for another lengthy absence from the hardwood. The 22-year-old star point guard is likely to miss an extended period of time because of the right ankle sprain he suffered against the Orlando Magic, despite avoiding a fracture, according to Shams Charania.
In an update announced by the Hornets, Ball underwent an MRI that confirmed the right ankle sprain. He will be re-evaluated in one week, per the team.
Ball was quickly ruled out for the remainder of the Nov. 26 contest against the Magic after landing awkwardly on a layup attempt and was downgraded from doubtful to out ahead of Charlotte's In-Season Tournament matchup with the New York Knicks. The Hornets are expected to proceed with caution, as Ball underwent surgery on the affected ankle over the offseason.
LaMelo Ball was injured on this play and had to be helped to the locker room. pic.twitter.com/Tpbh2U6eYs
— Bally Sports: Hornets (@HornetsOnBally) November 27, 2023
Ball had been on an absolute tear recently, averaging 32 points, nine assists and seven rebounds in the nine games leading up to the injury, making 44% of his 10 3-point attempts per game. He entered his last game with season averages of 26 points, nine assists and six rebounds.
Ball was ruled out for the remainder of last season in February due to a fractured right ankle, the same one that he strained on Nov. 26. Ball was also held to just 51 games during his rookie season because of injuries.
His injury coincided with the return of guard Terry Rozier, who had missed three weeks with a groin strain and finished with 22 points and nine assists in 36 minutes against the Magic.
