As LaMelo Ball Sits Out Hornets’ NBA Cup Opener, Is It Time to Be Concerned?
Charlotte’s star guard LaMelo Ball missed his third consecutive game due to a right ankle impingement, sitting on the bench in street clothes during the Hornets' matchup against the Miami Heat in the Emirates NBA Cup at Kasaya Center on Friday night. Alongside him, Collin Sexton also did not play, sitting out with a neck strain.
Defensive Challenges Ahead
Before the game, Miles Bridges addressed the challenge facing the Hornets, especially against a high-scoring Miami team they had faced just 11 days prior. Bridges emphasized the need for improved defense:
“Defense first. A defensive mindset. They scored, what, 130 on us, 120? So, we’ve got to go out there and try to be better.”
In reality, Miami scored 144 points in their previous meeting, making the task tougher without Ball and Sexton on the court.
Injury and Recovery Details
LaMelo Ball underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right ankle and a separate procedure on his right wrist in April to address the impingement. Despite the surgery, the injury continues to impact him, keeping him sidelined for most of the past week.
“Yeah, he’s got that ankle impingement and it’s been good to see he’s been able to get a little bit of work on the court,” coach Charles Lee said.
Current Status
- LaMelo Ball out three games consecutively with right ankle impingement.
- Collin Sexton also inactive due to neck strain.
- Hornets facing defensive challenges against a potent Miami offense.
The Hornets must improve defensively without key players if they hope to compete against top Eastern Conference opponents in this early NBA Cup action.
Author's summary: LaMelo Ball’s continued absence due to ankle impingement, alongside Collin Sexton’s injury, leaves the Hornets facing a tough defensive challenge against a high-powered Miami Heat offense.