LaMelo Ball leaves Lakers-Hornets game early after suffering left ankle injury

Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball exited early during the game against the Los Angeles Lakers due to a left ankle injury. The incident occurred in the first half, and Ball did not return to the court for the remainder of the game. The latest left ankle injury added as another setback for the young star, who has dealt with multiple injuries this season. The Hornets have yet to provide an update on the severity of the injury, leaving fans concerned about his availability moving forward as the team navigates a challenging season.

LaMelo Ball left Lakers-Hornets game following left ankle injury

LaMelo Ball has been ruled out for the Charlotte Hornets game against the Los Angeles Lakers due to a left ankle sprain. The injury occurred in the second quarter, and the Hornets confirmed he would not return to the game. Before exiting, Ball had recorded seven points, one assist, and one rebound.

The Hornets have not provided additional details on the severity of the sprain, leaving his status for future games uncertain. Ball's injury occurred after he made a one-footed 3-pointer. He stepped on Jarred Vanderbilt’s foot, causing him to fall backward and hit his head hard on the floor.

After the fall, Ball quickly got up and fouled intentionally to stop the clock. Later, limped toward the locker room on his own. The injury added to the concern surrounding Ball's health, as the Hornets await further updates on his condition.

Ball has struggled with ankle injuries since joining the Charlotte Hornets. To protect his ankles, he has been wearing braces this season. Despite these precautions, the latest injury raises further concerns about his long-term health and ability to stay on the court.

"I'm going to see over the summer, try some stuff," Ball said (per Reed). "My favorite thing to do is play basketball and to not be able to do it is just horrible... That fact that I got this summer (to be healthy), I'm going to take it and get it as strong I can to get out there and play," he added.

Two years ago, the 23-year-old's season ended early after a right ankle fracture that required surgery. He struggled again last season, playing only 22 games due to a right ankle issue. Now, his left ankle is the problem, and the timing couldn't be worse. Ball is vying for an All-Star spot, and this new injury complicates his chances.

Ball has been in his A-game this season averaging 28.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, 7.5 assists, and 1.4 steals per game. He is shooting 33.4 percent from beyond the arc and 41.9 percent from the field.

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As for his team, The Hornets are not with their best stats, they have only recorded 12 wins while facing 30 defeats so far.