Just when it felt like LaMelo Ball had returned to form with a 34-point, near-triple-double performance against the New York Knicks and without minutes restriction, he collapsed back into uncertainty with yet another ankle injury in the third quarter against the Toronto Raptors. The Charlotte Hornets have reported it as a left ankle bone bruise, and the injury has served as a simple reminder that Lamelo's greatness hinges on durability.
It seems like every time Ball has a vintage performance, it gets derailed by another setback. If he can’t consistently stay on the court, how can Charlotte become a relevant franchise that escapes NBA purgatory?
Lengthy injury history affects the entire team
When you dive deep into Ball's injury history, you come to the conclusion that he is injury-prone. The prominent problem is the ankle, which has been the most prevalent issue since 2022. He’s missed substantial time over his six-year career in the NBA. He has played in just 247 games out of a possible 433 games, equivalent to 57 percent.
His limited availability has affected the Hornets' rebuilding process in many ways. Charles Lee is forced to constantly shift the rotations instead of building team chemistry around Ball's playstyle. It also slows the development of other young players, as his creativity gives teammates better scoring opportunities and establishes a rhythm on the floor.
Availability is the best ability
On one hand, players like Ball don’t grow on trees. He’s a gifted player at his 6’7” frame with elite playmaking ability. No one has questioned LaMelo Ball’s talent, as he’s arguably the most talented player the Charlotte Hornets have ever drafted. On any given night, he can make a highlight reel play that wows fans.
On the other hand, missing half the season on average just won’t get it done in the NBA. There’s an argument to be made that the Hornets should center their focus on building around Rookie of the Year frontrunner Kon Knueppel, as he has exceeded expectations in almost every aspect this season. We will have to wait until the trade deadline to see how the Hornets truly feel about their face of the franchise.
On most nights, a healthy LaMelo Ball is the most talented player on the court. The concern is how rarely the word healthy seems to apply. He is already set to miss the Hornets' Sunday night battle against the Denver Nuggets, and only time will tell if he has to sit out much more this season.