As LaMelo Ball sits out Hornets’ NBA Cup opener, is it time to be concerned?
Charlotte’s star guard LaMelo Ball missed his third straight game due to right ankle impingement, sitting on the bench in street clothes during the Hornets' NBA Cup opener against the Miami Heat at Kasaya Center.
Joining him on the bench was Collin Sexton, who also sat out the matchup with a neck strain.
Defensive Challenges Ahead
Before the game, Miles Bridges highlighted the difficulty of the challenge, especially after their last encounter.
“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 had scored 144 points in the previous meeting, making the task tougher for Charlotte.
Injury Background
LaMelo Ball underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right ankle and a separate wrist procedure in April to address the impingement. Although the surgery targeted the issue, Ball continues to be impacted, limiting his play this 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,” said Hornets coach Charles Lee.
With key players sidelined, the Hornets face a challenging defense against the Heat in East Group C action.
Summary: LaMelo Ball's ongoing ankle impingement and Collin Sexton's neck strain are raising concerns as the Hornets struggle to improve their defense against Miami's high-scoring offense.
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