LaMelo Ball Injury Update: What Happened to Him Against the Raptors?

LaMelo Ball exited Charlotte’s December 5 game in Toronto after rolling his left ankle early in the third quarter. The Charlotte Hornets announced he would not return, raising immediate concern about his status for upcoming games. Fans quickly asked one question: what happened to LaMelo Ball?

The injury occurred less than three minutes into the second half, ending a promising night for the Hornets star. Team officials confirmed that Ball suffered left ankle soreness and was ruled out shortly afterward. His exit came just as he appeared to break out of a season-long slump.

LaMelo Ball Leaves Game With Left Ankle Injury

Before the injury, Ball had 11 points, two rebounds, and three assists on 4 of 9 shooting. He was aggressive, attacking the paint and controlling the pace as Charlotte built a six-point lead. The team was plus-two in his 12 minutes, showing his impact on the floor.

The Hornets’ public relations staff confirmed the injury in a statement, noting he would not return due to left ankle soreness. Local coverage from team reporters echoed the concern, as Ball has a history of ankle issues dating back to multiple setbacks in prior seasons.

Ball’s injury also arrived at a difficult moment for Charlotte. He was coming off his best game of the year on December 4 at Madison Square Garden, where he recorded 34 points, eight rebounds, and nine assists. It was the first time this season that his rhythm resembled the All-Star form he showed two years ago.

Charlotte is also dealing with backcourt depth issues. Collin Sexton and Tre Mann are both sidelined, leaving the Hornets thin at guard heading into their December 7 matchup with the Denver Nuggets. Early indications suggest Ball is unlikely to play Sunday, though no official status has been announced.

How the Injury Impacts Charlotte Moving Forward

The Hornets have struggled to evaluate their young core because of overlapping injuries. Ball, Brandon Miller, and rookie AJ Knueppel have played together in only six of Charlotte’s 23 games. Executives Jeff Peterson and Charles Lee have openly discussed the challenge of building long-term plans without consistent lineup data.

Losing Ball again forces Charlotte to shift responsibilities to Miller and other secondary creators. The team has attempted to stabilize its season with defensive improvements and increased ball movement, but missing its primary playmaker complicates that effort further.

LaMelo Ball’s latest ankle issue underscores Charlotte’s ongoing injury challenges. The Hornets will monitor him closely ahead of their next game as fans wait for clarity on what happened to LaMelo Ball and how long he may be out.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What happened to LaMelo Ball?

He rolled his left ankle early in the third quarter against the Raptors on December 5. The Hornets ruled him out for the rest of the game with left ankle soreness.

Q2: Is LaMelo Ball expected to play against the Nuggets?

He is unlikely to play based on early indications, but the Hornets have not given an official status yet. His ankle will be evaluated before Sunday.

Q3: How well was LaMelo playing before the injury?

He had 11 points, two rebounds, and three assists and was controlling the offense effectively. He was also coming off a 34 point performance against the Knicks.

Q4: How does this injury affect the Hornets?

The team is already short-handed at guard. Losing Ball further complicates rotations and limits their offensive creation.

Q5: Does LaMelo Ball have a history of ankle injuries?

Yes, he has suffered multiple left ankle sprains in previous seasons. The team typically takes a cautious approach with him.