LaMelo Ball’s Injury Plagues Hornets: Star Guard to Miss Remainder of Season
The Charlotte Hornets have been dealt a significant blow as star guard LaMelo Ball has been officially ruled out for the remainder of the 2024-25 NBA season. The 23-year-old underwent procedures to address lingering issues in both his right ankle and wrist, injuries that have nagged him throughout the season and limited his availability.
Ball, a cornerstone of the Hornets’ rebuilding efforts, appeared in just 25 games this season, averaging 23.9 points, 8.0 assists, and 5.1 rebounds. His absence has been keenly felt on both ends of the court, with the Hornets struggling to find consistency in his absence. Despite flashes of potential from young talents like Brandon Miller and Mark Williams, Charlotte currently sits near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings, effectively out of playoff contention.
“This is obviously a tough moment for LaMelo and for our team,” said Hornets head coach Steve Clifford. “But we’re confident this will allow him to fully recover and return stronger next season.”
Injuries have unfortunately been a recurring issue for Ball, who has now missed significant time in three consecutive seasons. The Hornets, while hopeful for his long-term recovery, must now assess how to move forward in the offseason, both in the draft and free agency, as they look to build a more durable and competitive roster around their franchise player.
For now, Charlotte fans can only hope that this latest setback is the final chapter in Ball’s injury saga—and the beginning of a healthier, more dominant return in 2025-26.
