The Hornets are having a forgettable season. They have won only twelve games so far and rank among the bottom two teams in the East. The only thing going in their favor is the rise of LaMelo Ball, who is having a career year. However, that silver lining also took a hit when the superstar guard suffered an unfortunate ankle injury during Monday’s Lakers clash. And now, the latest update on Melo’s return has left the fans heartbroken.

As per veteran insider Shams Charania, Ball will be re-evaluated in a week with a left ankle sprain. That means he will miss the next few games. Well, he got injured when he accidentally stepped on Jarred Vanderbilt’s foot while backpedaling after draining a deep-range shot. And he was forced to sub out because of the tweaked ankle. Thus ended Melo’s night with only 7 points in nine minutes.

Obviously, the Charlotte franchise’s problems will only increase with LaMelo out, as he has been in incredible form, averaging 28.2 points and over seven assists. Thanks to his flashy playing style, he was also the highest fan-voted East guard for the upcoming All-Star game. However, he missed the starting spot after ranking third in player votes and seventh in media votes. Of course, that was because of his team’s terrible record.

Now, Melo could also miss his shot at making the Reserves list because of the injury. Sure enough, the hoop community is not pleased after hearing the news.

Saddened NBA World urges the Hornets to figure out LaMelo Ball’s “Ankle Problems”

Soon after Shams’ update, fans began flooding social media with prayers for Melo’s speedy recovery with comments like “Sending prayers!” and “Speedy recovery for LaMelo.” Of course, not even a rival team’s fan would want to see a superstar missing time due to injury. However, one netizen thought this was the perfect opportunity for the Hornets to “Sign Gelo.” Yes, LiAngelo Ball has been seeking an opportunity to play in the NBA like his two brothers and fans are rallying behind him, especially after his recent track Tweaker’s viral success.

But it is unlikely that Gelo will be able to make up for his brother’s absence. So, one netizen suggested a better option, “They want Cooper Flagg BADLY.” Well, the Hornets are already having a terrible season and they could use that to their advantage by winning the lottery this year and drafting Cooper Flagg. The Duke star is expected to be the next big thing and teaming him up with LaMelo would make the Charlotte franchise a legitimate threat for the future.

Meanwhile, most fans were more concerned about Melo’s health as one wrote, “The Hornets need to figure out his ankle problems.” Yes, this is not the first time he has had to miss games because of ankle issues. In fact, his last two seasons were cut short due to a similar injury. And he might never be able to reach his maximum potential if the Hornets do not figure out a way to make his ankles less injury-prone.

But it looks like such issues run in the entire Ball family as one netizen questioned, “What did LaVar do to these kids’ tendons and bones lmfao.” Even Lonzo Ball recently returned from a nearly three-year hiatus because of serious knee issues. And now, Melo’s injury only raises similar concerns. Hopefully, he will return soon and continue dominating the league like he has been so far. Prayers up!