LaMelo Ball Injury Update: Colossal blow to Hornets as star point guard ruled out after suffering brutal injury against Lakers

LaMelo Ball was forced to leave the Charlotte Hornets' game against the LA Lakers on Monday after suffering a foot injury. The incident occurred in the second quarter after LaMelo hit a 3-pointer and was backpedaling down the court. The star point guard rolled his left foot on Jared Vanderbilt and immediately headed to the locker room.

Before the injury, the one-time All-Star had played 8:45 minutes, recording seven points, one assist and one steal. He shot 2 of 5 from the field, including an efficient 2 of 3 from beyond the arc.

Just before halftime, the Hornets delivered a disappointing update, announcing that LaMelo Ball would not return to the game.

The Hornets had a disastrous start to the game as Anthony Davis led the Lakers to a dominant first-quarter performance, with the Purple and Gold firing on all cylinders. Just when it seemed like the Hornets were on the verge of being blown out at home, the Eastern Conference team found their rhythm, surprisingly, without LaMelo Ball on the court.

The Hornets made it a nail-biter down the stretch, and at one point, it seemed as though the Lakers might let the game slip away. However, LeBron James and his squad held their composure, ultimately securing a hard-fought 112-107 road victory.

Fans react to LaMelo Ball's injury

Social media erupted after LaMelo Ball exited the game in the second quarter, visibly in pain and did not return to the contest.

"Sad to see, even when it’s against your team and technically benefits you guys you still want the best players to play and no one to get injured on both sides," a Lakers fan commented.

"A sprain off that little contact is insane..bruh gonna have to start wearing some ankle protection or sum when he comes back," commented another fan.

"Melo might be the most underrated tank commander in the NBA. Comes back occasionally to have some fun and do dumb shit on the court, then injures himself so he can sit out for a while and let the other guys lose 15 straight. I respect it," a fan said.

The Charlotte Hornets' next game is set for Wednesday against the Brooklyn Nets. All eyes will be on LaMelo Ball to see if he recovers in time for the matchup.