Hornets Injury Update: Why LaMelo Ball Could Potentially Miss Tonight’s In-Season Game vs the Knicks?

The Charlotte Hornets have faced a challenging start to the 2023-24 season. As the new season enters its second month, the hierarchy of teams is becoming clearer, with stronger teams rising to the top. Unfortunately for the Hornets, even LaMelo Ball’s impressive performances haven’t translated into a favorable outlook for the team. While the Hornets weren’t anticipated to compete for playoff berths, a modest improvement over the previous season was hoped for.

Regrettably, the team has failed to meet these expectations, leading to disappointment among their fanbase. Hornets fans face more disappointment as the availability of franchise star LaMelo Ball remains an uncertainty for their upcoming game against the Knicks.

LaMelo doubtful for Charlotte’s next game

The Hornets face the New York Knicks in their next game, later tonight. The Hornets will be going into the game as one of the most out-of-form teams in the league. They have lost seven out of their last ten matches. They currently occupy the 12th spot in the Eastern Conference standings, having won 5 games and losing another ten. The Hornets fanbase is in for more disappointment, as ESPN journalist Tim Bontemps reported that, “LaMelo Ball is doubtful for tomorrow’s final in-season tournament group game in New York against the Knicks.”

LaMelo sustained a right ankle injury following an awkward fall during an attempted drive against the Magic. Initial reports by Charlotte classified the injury as an ankle strain. Despite negative X-rays, concerns persist about a potential ligament injury to LaMelo Ball’s foot. The Hornets have arranged for an MRI to assess the extent of the damage to his injured foot. LaMelo was one bright spark in a dull and disappointing Hornets season. He averaged 24.7 points, 5.5 rebounds and 8.2 assists per game this season. Without their star player, how will the Hornets starting 5 look?

Predicted Lineup for the Hornets vs Knicks

The Knicks pose a formidable challenge for Charlotte, boasting a settled roster. While the Hornets aim for a morale-boosting victory, they face the obstacle of missing key players in the upcoming clash against New York. The Hornets have listed Nick Richards (concussion), Cody Martin (knee), and Frank Ntilikina (tibia) as out for the game.

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James Bouknight, who is nursing a knee injury, has been listed as probable along with franchise star LaMelo Ball. In spite of several injuries, the Hornets are capable of putting out a competitive starting five against the Knicks. They would start the game with Terry Rozier, Brandon Miller, Gordon Hayward, Miles Bridges, and Mark Williams. The Hornets would aim for a win against New York, but can they cope with the absence of LaMelo Ball?

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