LaMelo Ball made his much-anticipated return to the court on Monday night as the Charlotte Hornets faced off against the Philadelphia 76ers. This marks the first time this season that all five Hornets starters have been on the floor together. Ball had been sidelined for seven games due to a strained calf.
The Hornets initially planned to start Ball alongside teammates Brandon Miller, Miles Bridges, Josh Green, and Mark Williams at the beginning of the season. However, injuries impacted their lineup significantly, with Williams starting the season on the injury list and both Miller and Bridges missing games as well. The team struggled without Ball, recording just one win and six losses during his absence.
Before his injury, Ball was enjoying an All-Star caliber season, posting impressive averages of 31.1 points, 6.9 assists, and 5.4 rebounds per game. As the Hornets currently sit at 7-18 and in 13th place in the Eastern Conference, Ball’s return is crucial if they aim to revive their playoff hopes.
Ball expressed his enthusiasm about returning, stating that he has been focusing on refining his shooting and understanding defensive coverages he encountered earlier in the season. “It’s always great getting guys back,” he shared, adding that he was eager to play in a full-capacity lineup. He specifically mentioned the advantages of having Mark Williams back, highlighting how his height and mobility will enhance their pick-and-roll game.
The Hornets will have to capitalize on this moment to turn their season around as they navigate through the challenges of the ongoing NBA season.
In a related note, the 76ers were missing key players, including Joel Embiid, who is dealing with a right sinus fracture and is set to be evaluated in a week, and rookie Jared McCain, who is recovering from a torn meniscus surgery.
As the season progresses, the return of LaMelo Ball and the full Hornets roster will offer fans a glimmer of hope for improved performance and potentially turning the tide for the team’s playoff aspirations.