Charlotte Hornets point guard LaMelo Ball will be sidelined for at least two weeks due to a left calf strain, an injury he sustained during Wednesday’s game against the Miami Heat.
This setback forced Ball to miss Charlotte’s subsequent home loss to the New York Knicks on Friday, marking the first game he has missed this season after playing in the team’s initial 18 contests.
Ball’s absence is a significant blow for the Hornets, as he has been their offensive leader and playmaker. The dynamic guard is enjoying a standout season, averaging 31.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, 6.9 assists, and 1.1 steals per game.
His impressive performances this year follow a challenging 2022-2023 campaign, during which he missed 60 games due to an ankle injury.
Unfortunately for the Hornets, Ball’s injury is the latest in a string of health issues that have plagued the team this season. Key frontcourt players, including centers Mark Williams and Nick Richards, have been sidelined for most of the season.
Forward Grant Williams has been ruled out for the year with a torn ACL, while starting forward Miles Bridges has dealt with recurring knee soreness, causing him to miss several games. Backup guard Tre Mann has also struggled with back soreness, limiting his availability over the past two weeks.
This mounting injury list leaves the Hornets facing a significant challenge in maintaining competitiveness. With Ball out, the team will need other players to step up and fill the void in scoring and playmaking as they navigate this difficult stretch.
LaMelo Ball Out Two Weeks With Left Calf Strain https://t.co/rOS41kKQCl
— RealGM (@RealGM) November 30, 2024
