Hornets Star LaMelo Ball Expected to Miss Significant Time with Sprained Ankle, Reports Say

Charlotte Hornets face uncertain future without star LaMelo Ball, who is sidelined after suffering a sprained right ankle in their loss to the Orlando Magic on Sunday, as reported by The Atheltic’s Shams Charania. While Ball avoided a fracture, the team takes a cautious approach to his return, ruling him out of their next game against the New York Knicks.

Ball’s ankle injury occurred when he went up for a layup over Magic forward Paolo Banchero and landed awkwardly, needing assistance off the court. The 22-year-old, who recently signed a lucrative contract extension, has been a standout performer for the Hornets this season, averaging career-high points, assists, and rebounds. The team is faced with the challenge of maintaining their position in the league standings while Ball is on the mend.

Ball’s absence poses a challenge for the Hornets, whose recent performance in the league has been inconsistent. The uncertainty surrounding his return and the impact of his absence further complicates the team’s situation as they navigate the ongoing NBA season.