LaMelo Ball is once again sidelined with an ankle injury, adding to the Charlotte Hornets’ ongoing challenges. An MRI revealed a sprain in Ball’s left ankle, and the team announced that he will be re-evaluated in one week. Ball’s recurring ankle issues in recent years have raised concerns about his long-term durability, and his absence places even more pressure on the struggling Hornets.
As the team searches for consistency, Vasilije Micic will step in as the starting point guard. Micic is having a career-best season, but while his playmaking skills are solid, he lacks the same scoring and dynamic playmaking ability that Ball brings to the table. This shift is expected to reduce the Hornets’ offensive output, especially in transition and three-point shooting, areas where Ball has excelled.
The injury occurred during Monday’s game against the Los Angeles Lakers, when Ball stepped on the foot of Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt. As Ball backpedaled, he rolled his left ankle and visibly struggled with discomfort. Despite wearing ankle braces on both feet as a precaution, he was unable to avoid further injury. The Hornets lost the game 112-107, continuing their season-long struggles.
Before this latest setback, Ball was enjoying a standout season, averaging a career-high 28.2 points per game in his fifth NBA season. In addition to his scoring, Ball contributed 7.3 assists, 5.3 rebounds, 4.1 three-pointers, and 1.4 steals per game, playing 33.3 minutes per night across 31 games. His offensive contributions have been essential to the Hornets, and his absence will leave a significant gap in the lineup.
Micic, now tasked with leading the offense, lacks the explosiveness and creativity Ball provides. His presence will not be able to replicate Ball’s impact in the Hornets’ offensive system, potentially leading to a drop in production.
This injury marks the latest chapter in a series of setbacks for LaMelo Ball, who has been plagued by ankle problems in recent seasons. Over the past two years, he has appeared in just 58 games, missing significant time due to ongoing issues with both ankles.
Nevertheless, Ball has continued to post impressive stats. In the previous two seasons, he averaged 23.5 points, 8.3 assists, 5.9 rebounds, 3.7 three-pointers, and 1.5 steals per game, shooting 42% from the field, 37% from beyond the arc, and 85% from the free-throw line in 34.1 minutes per game.
When healthy, Ball is one of the most exciting young players in the league. He has recorded 10 career triple-doubles in just 215 games, underscoring his ability to impact the game in multiple areas. However, his injury history, combined with the Hornets’ overall struggles, has prevented him from consistently leading the team to success.
Despite Ball’s remarkable individual performance, he faces criticism for his inability to stay healthy and for the Hornets’ lack of team success. Charlotte has failed to build a winning squad around him, and his injuries have hindered their ability to develop team chemistry.
Last season, much of the focus was on the return of Miles Bridges and the development of rookie Brandon Miller. While Bridges added scoring punch and Miller showed promise, Miller is now out for the rest of the season with a torn wrist ligament. Ball’s presence is even more crucial now, as his absence makes it even harder for the Hornets to stay competitive.
At his current level of play, Ball would likely be an NBA All-Star, but his ongoing ankle issues cast doubt on his ability to maintain this level of performance long-term. The Hornets are invested in building around him, but his durability remains a major concern that could hinder his potential as the franchise’s leader.
With Ball expected to be out for at least a week, the Hornets will proceed cautiously in their efforts to bring him back to full health. Given his history of ankle injuries, it’s possible that his absence will be extended beyond the initial re-evaluation period to ensure his full recovery. The Hornets’ hopes for the season hinge on Ball’s health, and his ability to return to form will be a critical factor in their outlook for the remainder of the year.
Once again, LaMelo Ball’s injury leaves the Hornets in a tough spot. While his talent is undeniable, his long-term durability remains a pressing question. The team will have to cope without their star guard for now, hoping that he can return to full strength and avoid any further setbacks.
