LaMelo Ball will possibly return from injury. After suffering a fractured wrist earlier in the season, things are looking up for the presumed Rookie of the Year. The loss of Ball was a big one for the Charlotte Hornets, and it was thought he wouldn’t return this season. Getting him back in the lineup would be great for the 8-seed in the East that is 4-6 in their last 10 games.
The Hornets made the announcement that Ball was cleared to return to basketball activities.
There’s optimism that LaMelo Ball could be ready to return to the lineup in 7-10 days, source tells ESPN. https://t.co/i3and2SLWf
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) April 20, 2021
In 41 games played this season, Ball is averaging wonderful numbers. In 28.6 minutes per game, he has averaged 15.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, 6.1 assists, as well as 1.6 steals. He leads the Hornets in assists and steals. He has shot 37.5% from three this season and has impressed just about everyone with his ball-handling and court vision this season.
LaMelo is in his luggage tonight ? pic.twitter.com/IDeJ8kualx
— Def Pen Hoops (@DefPenHoops) March 14, 2021
Still watching this dime by LaMelo Ball on loop ?pic.twitter.com/YmWS3Z8Nwi
— Def Pen Hoops (@DefPenHoops) December 20, 2020
LaMelo stepping back on Zo ? pic.twitter.com/RJv0mIpV5f
— Def Pen Hoops (@DefPenHoops) January 9, 2021
The Hornets have played some fun basketball this season. With young players such as Ball, PJ Washington, and Miles Bridges they have played a brand of basketball that is distinctively their own. Terry Rozier has done his best to substitute for Ball along with Devonte’ Graham, but there is no replacing the team-leading passer. His play on defense is hard to duplicate as well.
LaMelo might be able to push the Hornets into the playoff picture. They are the 8-seed and would have to play in the play-in tournament if they stay there. They sit 2.0 games behind the 5th place Celtics, in a hotly contested battle in the middle of the East playoff standings.
The Hornets play the Knicks Tuesday night at 7:30 PM.
