David Chao, MD
2 min read • November 27, 2023
Posted in
LaMelo Ball's recent stellar performances have helped bolster the Charlotte Hornets in the Eastern Conference standings, but after an awkward landing on his right ankle during Sunday's game, his season might be at risk.
With just over two minutes remaining in the second quarter, Ball landed on his right leg while driving into the lane and scoring a left-handed layup over Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero. He was also struck in the face during the play, but the way he was assisted to the locker room suggested a lower-body injury.
After Ball went to the locker room the Hornets announced he suffered a right ankle strain, sidelining him for the remainder of the game.
By video, the injury mechanism did not appear significant and Ball should be able to return after a short absence, according to the Pro Basketball Docs.
The 2022 All-Star point guard has a history of ankle injuries in his NBA career. Last season in February, he fractured his right ankle, forcing him to miss the rest of the season. Prior to that, three sprained left ankles led to a 27-game absence.
In addition to ankle issues, Ball has faced wrist and hip injuries, causing him to miss a combined 83 games over three seasons.
Although he wore protective ankle braces in training camp after the previous season's serious ankle injuries that limited him to 36 games, it's unconfirmed if he wore them during the recent sprain.
The 6-foot-7 point guard had been averaging 32 points, nine assists, and seven rebounds in the nine games leading up to Sunday, with a 44% success rate in his 10 3-point attempts per game. His season averages stood at 26 points, nine assists, and six rebounds.
Before the injury, Ball played 15 minutes, contributing seven points, two rebounds, and one assist. Given his history of ankle issues in the past two seasons, the Hornets are expected to proceed cautiously with his return.
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Written by David Chao, MD
