How long is LaMelo Ball out for? Injury update & expected return date

LaMelo Ball can't catch a break. The point guard missed the first 13 games of the 2022-23 season and after appearing in three games, got injured again.

Considering that Ball is a big piece of the Charlotte Hornets, it's not surprising that the team has struggled without him. The Hornets are 6-15 this season, and only two teams have a worse record in the Eastern Conference.

This article reveals everything you need to know about LaMelo Ball's injury. We'll take a look at what caused the injury and how long the former Rookie of the Year will be out.

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LaMelo Ball is out with an ankle injury

In three games, Ball averaged 19.3 points and seven assists. He was a bit rusty, which isn't surprising considering that he missed the start of the season.

Unfortunately for him, the 6-foot-7 guard injured his ankle once again against the Indiana Pacers.

With less than two minutes left in the game, the Hornets All-Star tried to intercept the ball. He ran out of bounds and rolled his ankle by stepping on the foot of a courtside fan.

The Hornets lost the game, but their biggest problem was Ball's injury. The 21-year-old has missed five straight games since and is unlikely to return anytime soon.

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Last week, Hornets coach Steve Clifford said that Ball has made some progress. The young guard was on the court at the end of Hornets practice and seems to be making small steps in his recovery.

Ball is the best player on the Hornets (Image via Getty Images)

The biggest issue with his injury is that he reaggravated the same ankle that kept him sidelined at the start of the season. Due to this, he is unlikely to return before January. Ball has missed 18 games this season due to ankle issues.

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What's next for the Charlotte Hornets?

The Eastern Conference has been very competitive this season and some teams have been playing exceptionally well. The Cleveland Cavaliers are third in the East, while the Indiana Pacers are just 0.5 games behind them.

You may be interested in reading: LaMelo Ball Injury Update: "I hope there's nothing wrong and he's back the next game"

The Hornets have been one of the worst teams in the league so far (Image via Getty Images)

Competing without LaMelo Ball will be difficult, which is why the Charlotte Hornets may eventually decide to tank. However, they've won two out of their last three games.

The Hornets have an extended break before three games at home. They host the Washington Wizards, Milwaukee Bucks and the LA Clippers from December 3-6.