Just when it felt like LaMelo Ball had returned to form with a 34-point, near-triple-double performance against the New York Knicks and without minutes restriction, he collapsed back into uncertainty with yet another ankle injury in the third quarter against the Toronto Raptors. The Charlotte Hornets have reported it as a left ankle bone bruise, and the injury has served as a simple reminder that Lamelo's greatness hinges on durability.
It seems like every time Ball has a vintage performance, it gets derailed by another setback. If he can’t consistently stay on the court, how can Charlotte become a relevant franchise that escapes NBA purgatory?