6 months agoCharlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball (ankle) has been downgraded from doubtful to out for Tuesday's In-Season Tournament game against the New York Knicks. A right ankle strain forced Ball from Sunday's game against the Orlando Magic after 15 minutes of court time. Ball has a concerning history of ankle injuries, limiting him to just 36 games a year ago. He fractured his right ankle on Feb. 27, which subsequently cost him the remainder of the 2022-23 season. Fantasy managers hope that Ball isn't facing an extended absence, but his return timetable remains in the dark as it stands. The 22-year-old star playmaker is returning third-round fantasy numbers this season, amassing 24.7 points, 8.2 dimes, 3.5 treys, and 1.4 steals in 33.4 minutes per game. Charlotte plays again on Thursday against the Brooklyn Nets, while head coach Steve Clifford's tight rotation should allow 2023 No. 2 overall pick Brandon Miller to experience the most substantial boost in value amid Ball's absence.--Joseph Barbati - RotoBaller
Source: Charlotte Hornets Public Relations