LaMelo Ball Injury News & Updates

Ball (ankle) will not play Sunday against the Nuggets.

Ball is dealing with a left ankle bone bruise after the Hornets described his injury as soreness after he left Friday's game early. With Collin Sexton (thigh) and Tre Mann (knee) both out as well, more usage will fall to Kon Knueppel and Brandon Miller. Additionally, Sion James and KJ Simpson could be more involved for Charlotte.

Ball won't return to Friday's game against the Raptors due to left ankle soreness.

Ball will end his evening with 11 points (4-9 FG, 0-4 3Pt, 3-3 FT), two rebounds, three assists, one steal and two turnovers in 12 minutes. If Ball needs to miss Sunday's game against the Nuggets, Brandon Miller would see a large spike in usage and there would be more minutes available for Sion James and KJ Simpson.

Ball went back to the locker room during Thursday's game with an apparent lower leg injury, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball seemed to tweak something in his right leg, as he had a slight limp as he went back to the locker room. Ball should be considered questionable to return.

Ball (wrist) will play Friday versus the Raptors, as expected.

Ball was being listed as probable for Friday's game, so there was never much doubt about his status. Go ahead and get him active.

Ball (wrist) is probable for Friday's game in Toronto.

Ball played through the wrist issue during Wednesday's loss to the Knicks and went off for 34 points, so it didn't seem to impact his play all that much. Managers can expect to get official confirmation on Ball's status closer to tip-off time Friday.

Ball logged 34 points (12-27 FG, 5-13 3Pt, 5-6 FT), nine assists, eight rebounds and one steal across 37 minutes of Wednesday's 119-104 loss to the Knicks.

Other than his near triple-double, the biggest takeaway is that Ball managed to play a season-high 37 minutes. That could be an indication that the Hornets have a lot more confidence in his troublesome ankle issues. Ball caught fire in the fourth quarter, but Charlotte's comeback attempt fell a little short as the Hornets dropped their second straight.

Ball (wrist) is available for Wednesday's game versus the Knicks.

Ball was listed as probable and now we have official confirmation that he'll be out there. With Brandon Miller (shoulder) unavailable, Ball will be operating with a heavy workload, so make sure you've got him active.

Ball (wrist) is probable for Wednesday's game against the Knicks.

The superstar guard is expected to play through wrist soreness Wednesday. Ball has averaged 18.9 points, 8.9 assists, 6.1 rebounds and 1.1 steals per contest in 14 games this season, and more usage will be open due to the absence of Brandon Miller (shoulder) against New York.

Ball ended Monday's 116-103 loss to Brooklyn with 12 points (3-9 FG, 2-6 3Pt, 4-4 FT), five rebounds, 14 assists and two blocks across 29 minutes.

Ball recorded a season-high 14 assists, notching his third double-double of the campaign. Since returning from yet another ankle injury, Ball's playing time has been a hot topic of conversation. It appears as though the Hornets are going to be very cautious moving forward, a wise move given his lengthy injury history. In four games over the past week, Ball has averaged 13.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, 7.8 assists and 2.0 three-pointers in 26.7 minutes per game.

Ball (rest) is not on the Hornets' injury report ahead of Saturday's game against the Raptors.

Ball has had his minutes monitored while working through an ankle injury, but the sixth-year pro has been given the green light to play in Saturday's contest. He has shot just 32.2 percent from the field over his last five outings (including 21.4 percent from three on 8.4 3PA/G), and over that span he has averaged 16.6 points, 7.2 assists, 5.8 rebounds and 1.2 steals over 27.2 minutes per game.

Ball (rest) isn't listed on the injury report ahead of Wednesday's game against New York.

Ball took a seat for Sunday's matchup in the second half of his team's back-to-back but will be back in action for Wednesday's clash. The point guard is averaging 18.0 points, 4.8 rebounds and 8.5 assists in 26.8 minutes over his last four appearances.

Ball (rest) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Hawks.

Ball and Brandon Miller will rest after playing Saturday, so Sion James, Collin Sexton and Tre Mann are candidates for increased roles. Ball posted 18 points (7-14 FG, 1-7 3Pt, 3-3 FT), seven assists and four rebounds in 25 minutes during Saturday's loss to the Clippers and will likely be back in action Wednesday against the Knicks.

Ball posted 18 points (5-21 FG, 2-11 3Pt, 6-6 FT), seven rebounds, nine assists and two steals over 27 minutes during Wednesday's 127-118 loss to Indiana.

Ball struggled with efficiency shooting and protecting the ball against the Pacers, which may have factored into him not playing the final four minutes of the game. The former All-Star had six turnovers while scoring 18 points on 21 shots. Still, he delivered seven rebounds, eight assists, and a pair of steals to balance out his final line. Ball's play has been erratic since returning from a five-game absence due to an ankle injury, but you can expect him to maintain heavy usage on offense when available.

Ball logged 20 points (6-19 FG, 1-7 3Pt, 7-7 FT), eight assists, five rebounds and one steal over 28 minutes during the Hornets' 110-108 loss to the Raptors on Monday.

Ball was given the green light to play Monday after resting during the Hornets' loss to the Thunder on Saturday. He struggled with his efficiency during Monday's loss, but his work at the charity stripe helped him reach the 20-point mark for the first time since Oct. 28 against the Heat. Ball is averaging 22.0 points, 9.6 assists, 6.9 rebounds and 1.4 steals over 31.9 minutes per game this season, though he's connecting just 40.5 percent of his field-goal attempts (including 31.5 percent of his three-point tries on 9.1 3PA/G).

Ball (rest) will be available for Monday's game against the Raptors.

This is an expected update after Ball missed Sunday's game against the Thunder because it was the second leg of a back-to-back set. If Ball's ankle continues to make progress, his restrictions could soften gradually.

Ball (rest) won't play Saturday against the Thunder.

No surprise here, as the Hornets won't be taking any chances on the second leg of this back-to-back set given Ball's injury history. He returned from a five-game absence Friday and double-doubled with 16 points (5-15 FG, 2-6 3Pt, 4-5 FT), 10 assists and three rebounds across 27 minutes. Tre Mann and Collin Sexton are likely to see increased run as a result Saturday.

Ball totaled 16 points (5-15 FG, 2-6 3Pt, 4-5 FT), three rebounds and 10 assists over 27 minutes during Friday's 147-134 overtime loss to the Bucks.

Ball returned to action after missing the past five games due to ongoing ankle issues. He recorded his third double-double of the season, despite playing just 27 minutes. His limited playing time was likely part of his injury-management plan, and rightfully so. The Hornets play again Saturday, meaning there is a decent chance Ball sits that game out. Managers simply have to keep their fingers crossed that he can stay on the court for longer than a couple of weeks, at which point trying to sell high might be a viable strategy.

Ball (ankle) will play Friday against the Bucks, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball is back following a five-game stint on the sidelines, which should result in Collin Sexton or Sion James heading back to the second unit, and Tre Mann's minutes will dip. Ball could have his minutes monitored in his first game back, particularly with this being the first of a back-to-back set, so he's a risky target in daily fantasy leagues.

Ball (ankle) is probable for Friday's game in Milwaukee.

Ball is on track to return from a five-game absence Friday night, which will likely shift either Collin Sexton or Sion James back to the second unit, and Tre Mann's minutes would dip. Check back for official confirmation on Ball's status closer to Friday's tip.

Ball (ankle) is out for Wednesday's game against the Bucks.

Wednesday will mark a fifth consecutive absence for Ball, who practiced with the G League on Tuesday. The superstar guard will be trying to return Friday against the Bucks. Tre Mann and Sion James are the most likely candidates for an increased role Wednesday.

Charlotte recalled Ball from the G League's Greensboro Swarm on Tuesday.

Ball spent the afternoon in the G League simply to get some reps as he works his way back from an ankle impingement. His status for Wednesday's game against the Bucks will be known once the Hornets submit their official injury report Tuesday evening.

Ball (ankle) will practice with the G League's Greensboro Swarm on Tuesday, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

This will be a quick assignment for Ball, and he's likely to be recalled right after the practice. This is an indication that he's progressing, but it remains to be seen if he'll be cleared in time for Wednesday's game against the Bucks on Wednesday.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Monday's game against the Lakers.

Ball will miss his fourth consecutive contest due to a right ankle impingement, and his next opportunity to play will come Wednesday against the Bucks. With the star point guard sidelined, Collin Sexton, Sion James and Tre Mann are candidates for increased playing time.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Friday's game against the Heat.

Ball will miss a third consecutive game due to an ankle injury. Tre Mann will likely take the bulk of the workload in the backcourt, especially with Collin Sexton (neck) also ruled out. Sion James will also see a bump in minutes.

Ball (ankle) is now doubtful for Friday's game against the Heat, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

The Hornets have downgraded Ball from questionable to doubtful, setting the superstar guard up for a third straight absence. With Collin Sexton (neck) also unlikely to play, the Charlotte backcourt should be helmed by Tre Mann and Sion James on Friday.

Ball (ankle) is questionable for Friday's game against the Heat.

Ball is trying to get back into the lineup after missing two games with an ankle impingement. If the superstar guard is unable to make his way back onto the floor, fantasy managers can look for Tre Mann and Sion James to handle a larger role. Collin Sexton (neck), who's likely to play, would also orchestrate the offense if Ball is out.

Ball (ankle) is out for Tuesday's game against the Pelicans, Marc J. Spears of ESPN.com reports.

Tuesday will mark a second straight absence for Ball. The superstar guard's next chance to return from a right ankle impingement will come Friday against the Heat. Collin Sexton should run the Charlotte offense Tuesday, and rookie Sion James should hold onto streaming appeal until Ball is ready to play.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out Sunday against the Jazz.

Ball will miss his first game of the season due to a right ankle issue. Given his history of injuries, the Hornets may be holding him out as a precaution on the second night of a back-to-back set. Ball has had a strong start to the season, averaging 23.3 points, 9.8 assists, and 7.8 rebounds. Expect him to return Tuesday against the Pelicans.

Ball (ankle) is doubtful for Sunday's game against the Jazz.

Ball played the first half of the back-to-back Saturday but is likely to sit out Sunday's game due to a right ankle impingement. The star guard has been stellar to open the season, averaging 23.3 points, 9.8 assists, 7.8 rebounds and 1.7 steals through six contests. If he's held out, Collin Sexton should see an uptick in usage, while Sion James or Tre Mann could move into the starting lineup.

Ball (ankle) is available to play in Saturday's game against the Timberwolves, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball was upgraded to probable earlier in the day, and now coach Charles Lee has given him the green light to play. Any time Ball pops up on the injury report it's a big concern given his past issues staying on the floor, so it will be interesting to see how he holds up Saturday.

Ball (ankle) has been upgraded to probable for Saturday's game against the Timberwolves.

Ball is dealing with a right ankle impingement but is likely to suit up against Minnesota. The 24-year-old point guard has been productive through five regular-season games, averaging 24.4 points, 10.2 assists, 8.0 rebounds and 1.8 steals in 33.4 minutes per contest.

Ball (ankle) is questionable to play in Saturday's game against the Timberwolves, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

After an impressive all-around performance in Thursday's game against the Magic, Ball is dealing with an ankle issue. If he's unable to play, the team will likely pivot to Collin Sexton and Tre Mann to shoulder the load in the backcourt.

Ball racked up 17 points (8-19 FG, 1-9 3Pt), seven rebounds, 13 assists and two steals in 36 minutes during Thursday's 123-107 loss to Orlando.

This was Ball's third double-double of the season and the 70th of his career, which moved him to the No. 8 spot on Charlotte's all-time double-doubles list. He also moved into 10th place on Charlotte's all-time steals list Thursday evening. Ball is flirting with first-round value on the season and he's showing no signs of slowing down.

Ball recorded 20 points (6-18 FG, 4-12 3Pt, 4-5 FT), eight rebounds, nine assists and one steal in 28 minutes during Tuesday's 144-117 loss to Miami.

Ball led the Hornets in points, rebounds and assists on the way to a near triple-double. He didn't post his best shooting performance by any means but still managed to reach the 20-point threshold given his volume of attempts. Ball continues to be one of the focal points of Charlotte's offense, and he's scored 20 or more points in each of his first four matchups of the 2025-26 season.

Ball erupted for 38 points (13-25 FG, 5-12 3Pt, 7-7 FT), 13 rebounds, 13 assists, three steals and four turnovers in 35 minutes during Sunday's 139-113 win over the Wizards.

The Wizards had absolutely zero answers for Ball, who got whatever he wanted all game long. He converted deep threes, got to the line with ease, and went to work battling for boards amongst the trees. Ball has gotten off to a scorching start this season, and if he can maintain this pace, he should easily nab his second All-Star selection.

Ball posted 27 points (8-18 FG, 4-11 3Pt, 7-8 FT), nine rebounds, eight assists, one block and three steals across 34 minutes during Saturday's 125-121 loss to the 76ers.

Ball led the Hornets in scoring and steals in the losing effort against Philadelphia on Saturday night. The 24-year-old is averaging 23.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, 8.0 assists and 1.5 steals per game over two outings to begin the 2025-26 season. Ball will look to keep things going against the Wizards on Sunday in the second night of a back-to-back.

Ball recorded 20 points (7-15 FG, 4-8 3Pt, 2-5 FT), eight assists, two rebounds, one steal and three turnovers in 34 minutes during Wednesday's 136-117 win over Brooklyn.

While Ball wasn't great at the charity stripe, he did do an excellent job of distributing the rock, as he didn't commit his first turnover until late into the fourth quarter. He'll be a reliable source of points, triples and dimes this season, so if he can just manage to stay healthy, he could be in for a career year.

Ball (knee) is not on the injury report for Wednesday's season opener against Brooklyn.

Ball's knee contusion cost him the end of the preseason, but the injury proved to be of minimal concern. The superstar guard will be trying to play at least 50 games this year for the first time since 2021-22. Last regular season, Ball averaged 25.2 points, 7.4 assists, 4.9 rebounds and 1.1 steals per contest in 47 games.

Ball won't play in Friday's preseason finale against the Knicks due to a right knee contusion.

Ball notched 23 points (7-16 FG, 4-12 3Pt, 5-5 FT), eight assists, five rebounds, one steal and five turnovers in 28 minutes of Wednesday's 145-116 preseason win over the Grizzlies, but he'll take a seat for the preseason finale likely due to precautionary reasons. He'll have a few days off to rest and rehab before the Hornets open the regular season at home against the Nets on Wednesday.

Ball notched 23 points (7-16 FG, 4-12 3Pt, 5-5 FT), eight assists, five rebounds, one steal and five turnovers in 28 minutes of Wednesday's 145-116 preseason win over the Grizzlies.

Ball was outstanding in this game, and he showcased his creativity and flair on several instances. He was challenged by the franchise to become more of a leader this season, and he spent a ton of time in the gym prepping his body for the campaign after some injury issues in the past. Things are looking up for Charlotte's franchise point guard.

Ball finished with 20 points (8-13 FG, 4-8 3Pt), six assists, three rebounds and one block in 23 minutes during Saturday's preseason win over the Mavericks.

Ball was productive again Saturday, continuing what has been a positive preseason. The oft-injured guard has played in all three preseason games, an indication that he is fully healthy. After years of mediocrity, Charlotte will be hoping its superstars can remain healthy, especially with a weakened Eastern Conference. Despite the clear risk, Ball remains an elite point guard as long as he can stay on the floor.

Ball compiled 15 points (5-8 FG, 1-2 FT, 4-6 3Pt), five rebounds, four assists and a steal over 25 minutes in Thursday's 122-116 preseason loss to the Thunder.

While durability has always been a concern for Ball, he appears to be 100 percent after undergoing surgeries on his right wrist and right ankle over five months ago. He's logged more than 47 games only one during his five years in the pros, so there is a risk-reward element to taking Ball high in fantasy drafts. The team added excellent backcourt support in Collin Sexton and Spencer Dinwiddie, and both will be on call if Ball slips to the injury report at any point this season.

Hornets president of basketball operations Jeff Peterson said Monday that Ball (ankle, wrist) will be a full go for training camp, Sam Perley of the Hornets' official site reports.

Ball underwent surgeries on his right wrist and right ankle back in April, but it sounds like he's been a full go for a while. Ball spent of a lot of time in the weight room getting his body prepared for the season, and fantasy managers will be hoping that it translates to more durability on the court. In 2024-25, during the regular season, Ball averaged a career-high 25.2 points per game to go along with 7.4 assists, 4.9 rebounds and 1.1 steals.

The Hornets announced Wednesday that Ball has undergone successful surgeries on his right wrist and right ankle, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball is expected to resume full basketball activities in five to six weeks, which is a good sign for the Hornets moving forward. The rising star is coming off a strong 2024-25 campaign, averaging a career-high 25.2 points per game to go along with 4.9 rebounds, 7.4 assists and 1.1 steals, shooting 40.5 percent from the floor and 33.9 percent from beyond the arc.

Ball will miss the rest of the 2024-25 NBA season as he undergoes two minor procedures to address ankle and wrist issues, Shams Charania of ESPN reports.

Ball has been in and out of the Hornets' lineup all season while dealing with multiple injuries. The two procedures the rising star will undergo will allow him to have an entire offseason to heal, Shams Charania of ESPN reports. Ball played in 47 games this season, averaging a career-high 25.2 points per game to go along with 4.9 rebounds, 7.4 assists and 1.1 steals per game while shooting 40.5 percent from the floor and 33.9 percent from beyond the arc.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Friday's game against the Raptors.

After coming one assist shy of a double-double in Tuesday's loss to the Magic, Ball will miss Friday's matchup in Toronto. KJ Simpson could draw the start for this game, with Damion Baugh, Nick Smith and Seth Curry potentially seeing more time on the floor.

Ball ended with 25 points (9-13 FG, 3-4 3Pt, 4-4 FT), one rebound and nine assists over 29 minutes before fouling out of Tuesday's 111-104 loss to the Magic.

Ball fouled out in the final seconds of the fourth quarter in another loss for the Hornets, but the star floor general continues to make a significant impact on both ends of the court for a struggling Charlotte team. As a scorer or playmaker, Ball has been instrumental for the Hornets all season long. While the lack of efficiency from a shooting perspective can impact his value in some formats, he remains an excellent fantasy asset and has a very high floor whenever he's deemed available due to his sky-high usage rate. He's averaging 21.5 points, 8.2 assists and 4.5 rebounds per game since the beginning of March.

Ball finished Sunday's 122-105 loss to the Heat with 18 points (6-19 FG, 2-10 3Pt, 4-4 FT), three rebounds, 11 assists and two steals across 34 minutes.

Ball didn't play against the Thunder on Friday but returned to action Sunday and notched another double-double, his third across his last six appearances. The star floor general remains one of the most reliable fantasy options in the Hornets' roster, but his upside can be somewhat limited due to the resting patterns the Hornets might employ in the final weeks of the regular season. Ball is averaging 21.2 points, 4.8 rebounds and 8.1 assists per game over his last 10 appearances.

Ball (rest) has been cleared to play in Sunday's game against the Heat.

Ball will get back on the floor for the Hornets on Sunday after resting during Friday's loss to the Thunder. The star guard has struggled in the shooting department this season but is otherwise having a career year, averaging a career-high 25.4 points per game to go along with 5.1 rebounds, 7.2 assists and 1.2 steals.

Ball (rest) will not play Friday against the Thunder.

Ball recorded 25 points (10-23 FG, 5-10 3Pt), five rebounds and eight assists across 28 minutes during Thursday's 115-98 win over New York, and now he'll sit out the second leg of this back-to-back set for injury management as per usual. The Hornets will be very shorthanded Friday, meaning guys like Nick Smith, Josh Green, DaQuan Jeffries and Wendell Moore could see healthy workloads.

Ball produced 25 points (10-23 FG, 5-10 3Pt), five rebounds and eight assists over 28 minutes during Thursday's 115-98 win over New York.

Ball didn't have his best performance in this win Thursday, but the electric point guard finished just two assists away from a double-double while putting solid numbers in the rebounding category as well. Ball, who's returning from a one-game absence, has reached the 25-point mark in three of his last four regular-season appearances. He should remain a key contributor on offense for the Hornets as long as he remains on the hardwood.

Ball (wrist) has been cleared to play in Thursday's game against the Knicks.

After missing Tuesday's loss to the Hawks with a wrist injury, Ball will return to the floor for Charlotte on Thursday. The 23-year-old rising star is averaging a career-high 25.4 points to go along with 5.1 rebounds, 7.2 assists and 1.2 steals per game, shooting 40.2 percent from the floor and 33.5 percent from beyond the arc.

Ball (wrist) is listed as probable for Thursday's game against New York.

Ball was unable to play in Tuesday's loss to the Hawks due to right wrist soreness, but he's on track to return Thursday. He has shot 35.7 percent from the field in March (including 34.9 percent from three on 10.8 3PA/G) and has averaged 21.1 points, 7.8 assists and 5.0 rebounds over 31.4 minutes per game.

Ball (wrist) is out for Tuesday's game versus the Hawks.

Ball has been downgraded from questionable to out Tuesday due to right wrist soreness. Damion Baugh, Nick Smith, Wendell Moore, and Marcus Garrett could all see increased playing time in his absence. Ball's next chance to suit up is Thursday's matchup with the Knicks.

Ball (wrist) is questionable for Tuesday's game against the Hawks.

Ball has appeared in eight of Charlotte's last nine games, missing only once during the second night of a back-to-back set. He was initially listed as probable for Tuesday, so his downgraded to questionable is concerning. If Ball is sidelined, Nick Smith, Marcus Garrett and Seth Curry would be candidates for increased roles.

Ball (wrist) is probable for Tuesday's game against Atlanta.

Ball has dealt with several injuries throughout the 2024-25 campaign, which has led to the Hornets managing his playing time. However, the star point guard is expected to suit up for his fifth consecutive contest Tuesday, despite dealing with right wrist soreness. Over his last four outings, Ball has averaged 20.8 points, 9.8 assists, 3.5 three-pointers, 3.3 rebounds and 1.0 steals across 31.5 minutes per contest.

Ball posted 27 points (9-13 FG, 7-11 3Pt, 2-2 FT), three rebounds, 15 assists and one steal over 29 minutes during Friday's 145-134 victory over the Spurs.

Ball handed out a season-high 15 assists Friday, tallying his 11th double-double of the year. The star floor general should remain a high-end fantasy producer in all formats when available, although the rebuilding Hornets figure to monitor his workload in the final month of the season. Over his last 10 games, Ball has averaged 19.8 points, 7.4 assists, 5.3 rebounds, 0.8 steals and 3.4 three-pointers in 30.5 minutes.

Ball amassed 15 points (5-21 FG, 2-12 3Pt, 3-3 FT), six rebounds, 10 assists and one steal in 36 minutes during Monday's 105-102 win over the Heat.

Ball returned from a one-game absence after sitting out the win over the Nets on Saturday due to that game being the second leg of a back-to-back set, and while he posted a solid line in this win, he wasn't efficient with his shot. That has been a persistent issue throughout Ball's career, and while it gets overlooked due to how much value he brings to the table in other areas, it's becoming a very complicated trend of late. In five outings since the beginning of March, Ball is averaging 20.2 points, 6.6 rebounds and 6.6 assists per game, but he's also shooting 34.3 percent from the floor and 11.2 percent from three-point range.

Ball (ankle) isn't listed on Charlotte's injury report for Monday's game against the Heat.

After resting Saturday during the second half of a back-to-back, Ball will return to action Monday. Over his last four appearances, Ball has averaged 21.5 points, 6.8 rebounds and 5.8 assists in 31.3 minutes per game.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Saturday's game against the Nets.

Ball has been in and out of the lineup all season for the Hornets due to injuries, which has led to the team managing his playing time in back-to-back situations. With the rising star out Saturday, the Hornets will likely turn to a combination of Damion Baugh, Nick Smith, Seth Curry, KJ Simpson and Malachi Flynn to pick up the slack in the backcourt for Charlotte.

Ball has been cleared to play in Friday's game against the Cavaliers.

Ball recorded a double-double for the Hornets the last time he was on the floor, finishing with 28 points, 10 rebounds and six assists in Wednesday's loss to the Timberwolves. The rising star is averaging a career-high 26.2 points this season, with 5.4 rebounds, 7.0 assists and 1.2 steals per game for Charlotte.

Ball (illness) has been listed as probable for Friday's game against the Cavaliers, Grant Afseth of DallasHoopsJournal.com reports.

Ball popped up on the injury report Thursday as he is battling an illness. However, he is trending toward playing. The one-time All-Star is coming off an impressive performance in Wednesday's loss to the Timberwolves, finishing with 28 points, 10 rebounds and six assists.

Ball contributed 28 points (11-28 FG, 4-12 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 10 rebounds and six assists over 36 minutes in Wednesday's 125-101 loss to Minnesota.

Ball led the way for Charlotte in Wednesday's contest, posting team-high marks in scoring, rebounds and assists while finishing two points short of the 30-point mark in a double-double. Ball tied a season high in rebounds, a mark he has recorded on two other occasions. He has now tallied at least 28 points and 10 rebounds in three outings this year.

Ball contributed 25 points (8-21 FG, 4-9 3Pt, 5-8 FT), nine rebounds, seven assists, one block and one steal over 34 minutes in Monday's 119-101 loss to Golden State.

Ball did a little bit of everything in Monday's contest, leading all Hornets in assists while finishing second on the team in scoring and rebounds in a well-rounded showcase. Ball hauled in nine or more boards for the fifth time, recording at least 25 points, nine rebounds and seven assists on four occasions.

Ball (ankle) recorded 20 points (7-19 FG, 5-13 3Pt, 1-1 FT), seven rebounds and three assists across 32 minutes Saturday in the Hornets' 113-100 loss to the Wizards.

Back in action after missing the previous two contests due to right ankle soreness, Ball didn't face any obvious limitations in his return but wasn't particularly efficient, as he turned the ball over six times and shot 36.8 percent from the field. Given the 14-45 Hornets' place in the standings, Ball seems like a good bet to be rested for one half of back-to-back sets for the remainder of the season, and it wouldn't be surprising if he was occasionally held out for standalone games, too.

Ball (ankle) is available for Saturday's game versus the Wizards.

Ball will return to action Saturday after missing Charlotte's previous two contests due to right ankle soreness. Ball is averaging 17.7 points, 6.2 assists, 4.1 rebounds and 1.0 steals in 27.3 minutes across his last 10 appearances.

Ball (ankle) has been listed as questionable for Saturday's game against the Wizards.

Ball has missed the last two games for the Hornets due to soreness in his right ankle. The rising star could be trending in the right direction to get back on the floor Saturday. However, KJ Simpson may get a boost in minutes if the one-time All-Star cannot play against Washington.

Ball (ankle) is ruled out for Thursday's matchup with Dallas.

Ball missed Tuesday's contest against the Warriors due to his ankle injury, and will miss a second consecutive game Thursday. Ball's season has been riddled with injury, now missing 22 of his last 40 games. KJ Simpson and Elfrid Payton will likely take over as the team's point guards against the Mavericks.

Ball (ankle) has been listed as questionable for Thursday's game against the Mavericks.

After missing Tuesday's loss to the Warriors, Ball could miss Thursday's matchup in Dallas due to right ankle soreness. KJ Simpson replaced the one-time All-Star in the starting lineup against Golden State, which might be how Charlotte goes against the Mavericks.

Ball (ankle) has been cleared to play in Thursday's game against the Mavericks.

After missing Tuesday's loss to the Warriors, Ball will be back on the floor for the Hornets for Thursday's game against Dallas. The one-time All-Star had a couple of rough outings before missing the matchup against Golden State, scoring a combined 19 points in two games. The 23-year-old will attempt to bounce back and return to his dominant form in the scoring column, as he's averaging a career-high 26.3 points per game this season for Charlotte.

Ball (ankle) is out for Tuesday's game against the Warriors.

The Hornets will hold Ball out of action Tuesday on the second half of their back-to-back set. The star guard is likely to be available Thursday against Dallas, but he could get more maintenance days down the stretch. Elfrid Payton appears to be the most likely candidate to replace Ball in the starting lineup, with Payton averaging 6.6 points, 8.6 assists, 4.2 rebounds and 1.4 steals in 25.5 minutes in five games as a starter this season.

Ball amassed five points (1-10 FG, 0-4 3Pt, 3-4 FT), four rebounds, two assists and one block in 22 minutes during Saturday's 141-88 loss to the Trail Blazers.

Ball had easily his worst performance of the season as the Hornets were played off the court by the Trail Blazers. Charlotte is once again playing for lottery balls following another underwhelming season, meaning Ball's availability could be spotty moving forward. He will continue to facilitate the offense when healthy but as we saw here, their motivation could do with some tweaking.

Ball (ankle) is not listed on the injury report ahead of Saturday's game against Portland.

Ball was held out of Thursday's loss to the Nuggets due to right ankle injury management, but it appears the star point guard should be able to suit up Saturday. He's averaging a career-high 27.9 points per game this season along with 7.2 assists, 5.1 rebounds and 1.3 steals over 32.7 minutes. Ball's return will likely lead to Elfrid Payton retreating to the bench.

Ball is out for Thursday's game against the Nuggets due to right ankle injury management.

Charlotte is on the second night of a back-to-back, so Ball and Mark Williams (conditioning) will both sit out following an upset victory over the Lakers. The absences should lead to more usage for Nick Smith, Seth Curry, Jusuf Nurkic and Moussa Diabate. Ball's next chance to suit up is Saturday's matchup at the Trail Blazers.

Ball closed Wednesday's 100-97 win over the Lakers with 27 points (9-19 FG, 5-13 3Pt, 4-4 FT), five rebounds, six assists and one steal over 33 minutes.

Ball didn't show any lingering effects of the right ankle injury that prevented him from playing in Charlotte's final game before the All-Star break, and he led the team in scoring in what turned out to be a tight, low-scoring win. Ball has been the most consistent offensive weapon for the Hornets this season, although injuries have limited him of late, and he's missed seven of the Hornets' last 10 games.

Ball (ankle) will play in Wednesday's game against the Lakers.

As expected, Ball will suit up for Wednesday's tilt after being deemed probable due to a sore right ankle. The 23-year-old guard is averaging 27.3 points, 5.1 rebounds, 7.2 assists and 1.3 steals across 32.7 minutes per game this season.

Ball (ankle) is probable for Wednesday's game against the Lakers.

Ball didn't play in the Hornets' last game before the All-Star break, but the star floor general seems to have used the time off to recover. Ball has been Charlotte's best player this season, averaging 27.3 points, 5.1 rebounds and 7.2 assists per game across 33 appearances.

Ball (ankle) is out for Wednesday's game versus the Magic.

Ball injured his right ankle against Brooklyn on Monday and will remain out Wednesday. KJ Simpson will likely receive increased playing time at point guard in his absence. Ball will have the entire All-Star break to recover before Charlotte returns to action against the Lakers on Feb. 19.

Ball won't return to Monday's game against the Nets due to right ankle soreness. He recorded five points (2-5 FG, 1-3 3Pt), one rebound, three assists and one steal in 10 minutes before exiting.

Ball logged 10 minutes during the first quarter of Monday's clash but went to the locker room shortly after checking out of the game. KJ Simpson started the second half in Ball's place and should see plenty of chances down the stretch.

Ball (ankle) is available for Monday's game against the Nets.

Ball missed the first leg of this back-to-back Sunday against the Pistons, but it's not a surprise to see him back in the lineup for Monday. There's no word of any restrictions, as well. Over his last three appearances, Ball has averaged 18.7 points, 6.0 assists, 3.0 rebounds and 1.3 steals on 38.5 percent shooting from the field.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Pistons.

Ball was a late addition to the injury report and ultimately won't suit up for the first half of Charlotte's back-to-back set. Nick Smith (back) is also out, so KJ Simpson, Seth Curry, Elfrid Payton and Isaiah Wong should all handle increased roles in the backcourt. Ball will likely return to action Monday in Brooklyn and can be considered probable until the team releases an official injury report.

Ball (ankle) has been downgraded to questionable for Sunday's game against the Pistons.

After initially being left off the injury report, Ball is now questionable for Sunday, the first night of a back-to-back set. The point guard will likely miss at least one of the next two games, but it's unclear which one it'll be. When he's sidelined, KJ Simpson, Elfrid Payton and Isaiah Wong would be candidates for increased roles.

Ball recorded 24 points (9-26 FG, 4-11 3Pt, 2-2 FT), four rebounds and 10 assists across 36 minutes during Friday's 117-116 win over San Antonio.

Ball returned to the lineup after missing the previous five games due to an ankle injury. He moved straight back into the starting lineup, recording his seventh double-double of the season. The fact he logged a team-high 36 minutes would indicate he is over his most recent injury, a good sign for his immediate playing future. As long as he can stay healthy, Ball should continue to facilitate the offense, while also leading the way when it comes to shot attempts.

Ball (ankle) is available for Friday's game against the Spurs.

Ball has missed the Hornets' last five games due to a left ankle sprain, but he's progressed enough in his recovery to play in Friday's contest. Ball's return to the starting lineup will likle ylead to KJ Simpson coming off the bench. Ball averaged 23.4 points, 7.0 assists, 5.1 rebounds and 1.6 steals over 32.2 minutes per game in the nine games prior to his ankle injury.

Ball (ankle) has been listed as questionable for Friday's game against the Spurs.

Ball has missed the Hornets' last five games after suffering an ankle sprain in their recent loss to the Lakers. If the star guard can't play against San Antonio, the team could turn to KJ Simpson, Isaiah Wong, Seth Curry, and Nick Smith to help shoulder the load in Charlotte's backcourt.

The Hornets announced Tuesday that Ball (ankle) has progressed to on-court activity, and additional updates on his status will be updated as appropriate.

Ball has already been ruled out for Wednesday's contest versus the Bucks, marking his fifth straight absence due to a sprained left ankle. However, it appears that the 23-year-old guard is progressing well in his recovery and could return to action soon. Until Ball is officially cleared to play, Vasilije Micic (ankle) will likely continue to start.

Ball will be re-evaluated in one week after suffering a sprained left ankle in Tuesday's win against the Lakers, Shams Charania of ESPN reports.

Ball went down with a sprained left ankle in Tuesday's win over the Lakers, and it could result in the rising star missing some time for Charlotte with the NBA All-Star break approaching. This is a disappointing development for the Hornets and the 23-year-old, who is having an incredible season from a scoring perspective, averaging a career-high 28.2 points per game. Vasilije Micic and Seth Curry could see a considerable bump in playing time if Ball is out of the lineup for an extended period.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Wednesday's game against the Nets.

Ball suffered a left ankle sprain in Monday's loss to the Lakers and has been ruled out for Wednesday's game against the Nets. The star guard will continue to go through the evaluation process with his ankle sprain, with the team to provide updates on his status moving forward.

Ball won't return to Monday's game against the Lakers due to a sprained left ankle.

Ball went down in the second quarter of Monday's contest and was ruled out shortly thereafter. The star point guard posted seven points (2-5 FG, 2-3 3Pt, 1-2 FT), one assist and one steal in nine minutes before heading back to the locker room. Ball can be considered questionable at best for Wednesday's game against Brooklyn until the team provides another update. Vasilije Micic and Seth Curry are candidates for a bump in minutes with Ball sidelined.

Ball went to the locker room after appearing to suffer a leg injury during the second quarter of Monday's game against the Lakers, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball went down after colliding with Jared Vanderbilt and went to the back to get checked out immediately after. Vasilije Micic and Seth Curry would gets more looks in the backcourt if Ball is unable to return.

Ball contributed 25 points (9-21 FG, 4-13 3Pt, 3-6 FT), five rebounds, seven assists and three steals across 30 minutes during Saturday's 123-92 victory over the Pelicans.

Ball returned Saturday from a one-game absence due to a sprained right wrist and led the Hornets in both scoring and assists. He wasn't the most efficient from the field and connected on just 50.0 percent of his free-throw attempts, but Ball will continue to see plenty of volume as Charlotte's clear No. 1 option on offense. Over his last eight outings, Ball has averaged 25.5 points, 7.8 assists, 5.6 rebounds and 1.6 rebounds over 35.2 minutes per game.

Ball (wrist) is available to play against the Pelicans on Saturday.

Ball was held out of Friday's 102-97 loss to the Trail Blazers due to a sprained right wrist, but the injury isn't severe enough for him to miss a second straight game. Over his last seven outings, Ball has averaged 25.6 points, 7.9 assists, 5.9 rebounds and 1.6 steals over 35.9 minutes per game; however, he's shot just 39.6 percent from the field over that span (including 29.5 percent from three on 11.1 3PA/G).

Ball (wrist) is listed as probable for Saturday's game versus the Trail Blazers.

Ball is expected to return to action Saturday after missing Charlotte's previous contest due to a right wrist injury. The star guard should reclaim his starting spot from Vasilije Micic if he's upgraded to available.

Ball (wrist) has been ruled out for Friday's game against the Trail Blazers.

The Hornets will be shorthanded for Friday's game against Portland, with two of their best players ruled out. Miles Bridges (back) will join Ball watching from the sideline. This will be the 12th game that the star guard will miss for Charlotte this season, but it could be a resting situation, as the Hornets play the second game of a back-to-back Saturday against the Pelicans.

Ball is listed as questionable for Friday's game versus the Trail Blazers due to a sprained right wrist, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball is in danger of missing his first contest since Jan. 3 due to a sprained right wrist. If the star guard is ultimately downgraded to out, Vasilije Micic will likely receive increased playing time.

Ball posted 22 points (7-20 FG, 2-6 3Pt, 6-6 FT), eight rebounds and six assists in 34 minutes during Wednesday's 132-120 loss to the Grizzlies.

Ball has been among the highest-scoring guards in the Eastern Conference this season, and while he has the freedom to shoot at will in a rebuilding team, his numbers are worth highlighting since he's been an absolute stud in fantasy. Even though the availability has been an issue at times, Ball has been very good when available. He's scored at least 20 points in his last 10 appearances, averaging 26.7 points, 8.2 assists, 5.6 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game in that stretch.

Ball provided 23 points (8-21 FG, 5-10 3Pt, 2-4 FT), seven rebounds, nine assists, one block and two steals in 38 minutes during Monday's 110-105 win over the Mavericks.

Ball did a little bit of everything to lift Charlotte to victory Monday, leading all players in assists to go along with a team-high-tying scoring total while finishing second on the team in rebounds in a balanced showcase. Ball has tallied at least 20 points, seven rebounds and seven assists in six contests this season while posting at least 20 points in nine consecutive outings.

Ball registered 27 points (11-21 FG, 2-9 3Pt, 3-3 FT), six rebounds, nine assists and three blocks across 39 minutes during Wednesday's 117-112 victory over Utah.

Ball was one assist shy of recording his third straight double-double in Wednesday's win. While the star guard also tallied a season-high three blocks, he continued to struggle with his outside shot. Across Ball's last five outings, he is converting just 28.8 percent of his 13.2 three-point attempts per contest.

Ball racked up 25 points (9-25 FG, 5-17 3Pt, 2-2 FT), six rebounds, 11 assists, one block and three steals over 40 minutes during Sunday's 120-113 loss to the Suns.

Ball might have needed 25 shots to score 25 points, but fantasy managers will gladly overlook the efficiency issues given his production across the board. The star floor general has been limited to just seven games since the beginning of December due to several injuries and postponements, but he's been outstanding when available. Since then, he's averaging 26.3 points, 8.6 assists and 5.6 rebounds per contest.

Ball and the Hornets will not play Saturday's game against the Clippers. as the game has been postponed due to the continuing wildfires in the Los Angeles area.

This will be the Hornets' second consecutive postponement, as their game against the Lakers on Thursday also got postponed. The Hornets will continue their road trip through the Western Conference in Phoenix against the Suns on Sunday.

Ball and the Hornets will not play Thursday's game against the Lakers, as the game has been postponed due to the continuing wildfires in the Los Angeles area.

This is a situation that's in flux and could affect any teams set to play in the Los Angeles area in the immediate future. The Hornets are scheduled to face the Clippers in LA on Saturday, and the Lakers play their next five games in the LA area.

Ball notched 32 points (12-28 FG, 5-16 3Pt, 3-5 FT), 10 rebounds, seven assists and four steals over 35 minutes during Tuesday's 115-104 win over Phoenix.

Ball absolutely dominated Tuesday's contest, making an impact on both ends of the court while leading all players in scoring, threes made, assists and steals to go along with a double-digit rebound total in a double-double performance. Ball recorded his 15th game of the season with 30 or more points, posting his second double-double of the campaign. He matched season-high rebound and steals totals in the victory as well while handing out seven or more dimes for the 14th time.

Ball posted 24 points (7-20 FG, 3-11 3Pt, 7-9 FT), three rebounds and four assists in 33 minutes during Sunday's 115-105 loss to the Cavaliers.

Ball returned Sunday after missing the last three games with a left ankle sprain and right wrist sprain, putting together a strong offensive showing while posting a team-high-tying point total and leading all starters in assists. Ball has struggled to stay healthy since the end of November, but has appeared in five games since then and has tallied 20 or more points in four of those five outings.

Ball (ankle/wrist) is available for Sunday's game against the Cavaliers, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

A left ankle sprain and right wrist sprain has caused Ball to be sidelined for the Hornets' last three games, but he will make his return Sunday. The fifth-year guard is averaging a career-high 30.1 points per game this season along with 7.4 assists, 5.3 rebounds and 1.3 steals over 33.7 minutes per contest.

Ball (ankle/wrist) has been listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Cavaliers.

Ball has missed the last three games for the Hornets and may be able to get back on the floor against the Cavaliers on Sunday. If Ball cannot play, Vasilije Micic will continue to see an increased workload in the backcourt.

Ball (ankle/wrist) has officially been ruled out for Friday's game against the Pistons.

Ball will miss a third straight game for the Hornets on Friday night when the team faces the Pistons. Vasilije Micic will have to shoulder the load as the starting point guard for Charlotte once again, who finished with seven points, seven assists and three rebounds in the loss to the Bulls on Monday.

Ball (ankle/wrist) participated in shootaround ahead of Friday's game versus the Pistons, according to the Hornets' Instagram.

Ball is officially listed as questionable Friday after missing Charlott'es previous two contests due to left ankle and right wrist injuries. However, Ball's participation in shootaround is a positive sign that he will be able to return to action against Detroit.

Ball (ankle/wrist) is listed as questionable for Friday's game versus the Pistons.

Ball is in danger of missing his third straight contest Friday due to left ankle and right wrist injuries. If Ball is ruled out yet again, Vasilije Micic will likely draw another start against Detroit.

Ball (ankle/wrist) has been ruled out for Monday's game against the bulls.

Ball is working through left ankle and right wrist injuries, which will force him to miss his second straight game. The Hornets have an extended break following Monday's game, and his next opportunity to play will be Friday against the Pistons. Vasilijie Micic was inserted into the starting lineup against the Thunder on Saturday and figures to do so again Monday due to Ball's injury.

Ball (ankle/wrist) is listed as doubtful for Monday's game against the Bulls.

Ball is expected to miss his second consecutive outing due to left ankle and right wrist soreness. If the superstar is sidelined, Vasilije Micic will likely draw another start with Seth Curry seeing a bump in playing time off the bench.

Ball (ankle/wrist) won't play in Saturday's game versus the Thunder, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball has been downgraded from questionable to out Saturday due to ankle and wrist soreness. Vasilije Micic and Seth Curry are candidates to receive increased playing time with Brandon Miller (ankle) and Cody Martin (knee) also out. Ball's next chance to suit up is Monday's matchup with Chicago.

Ball (ankle/wrist) is questionable for Saturday's game against the Thunder.

After scoring 31 points in the loss to the Wizards, Ball is dealing with ankle and wrist soreness, which has changed his status for Saturday's matchup against Oklahoma City. If Ball cannot play against the Thunder, Vasilije Micic could see a bump in minutes.

Ball logged 31 points (12-27 FG, 4-13 3Pt, 3-3 FT), six rebounds, six assists and one steal over 38 minutes during Thursday's 113-110 loss to the Wizards.

Ball has reached the 30-point mark in three of his four appearances since returning from a seven-game absence due to a left calf strain that kept him sidelined between Nov. 29 and Dec. 13. However, and as good as his numbers have been, the lack of efficiency remains an issue for Ball. Over that four-game stretch, Ball is averaging 25.8 points and 9.5 assists per game while also shooting a meager 40.2 percent from the floor.

Ball racked up 23 points (9-18 FG, 5-11 3Pt), five rebounds, eight assists and one block across 30 minutes during Monday's 114-101 loss to the Rockets.

Ball returned from a brief one-game absence due to what the team described as left calf injury management, and the star floor general filled out the stat sheet admirably. He finished just two dimes away from recording a double-double, and while he tends to fill the stat sheet admirably, the lack of efficiency could be an issue in some formats. Through his last nine games, Ball is averaging 30.7 points, 5.2 rebounds, 9.1 assists and 1.4 steals per game. However, he's also committing 3.7 turnovers per contest while shooting 40.5 percent from the floor and 32.8 percent from beyond the arc.

Ball (calf) is off the injury report for Monday's matchup against the Rockets.

Ball will return to game action after missing Friday's loss to Philadelphia due to left calf injury management. The 23-year-old has made only two appearances in December due to the calf injury, during which he has averaged 24.5 points, 12.0 assists, 4.5 rebounds and 4.0 steals across 30.0 minutes per contest.

Ball is out for Friday's game versus the 76ers due to left calf injury management.

Ball hasn't suffered any new injury but will sit out Friday's contest due to it being the second leg of a back-to-back. Vasilije Micic will likely receive increased playing time in his absence. Ball should return to action for Monday's matchup with Houston.

Ball chipped in 34 points (11-32 FG, 3-18 3Pt, 9-10 FT), four rebounds, 13 assists and four steals in 34 minutes during Thursday's 123-114 loss to Washington.

While Ball's counting stats were eye-popping, his efficiency was poor in Thursday's loss. Over his last 10 outings, Ball is averaging 31.4 points, 8.7 assists, 5.7 rebounds and 1.3 steals in 34.0 minutes. However, over that span, he is shooting just 40.2 percent from the field and 31.8 percent on 13.2 three-point attempts per contest.

Ball racked up 15 points (5-15 FG, 3-8 3Pt, 2-4 FT), five rebounds, 11 assists and four steals across 26 minutes during Monday's 121-108 loss to Philadelphia.

The fifth-year point guard had missed the prior seven games with a calf injury, but Ball looked fully healthy in his return, setting a season high in steals while collecting his fifth double-double in 19 appearances. Brandon Miller (ankle) left the game in the fourth quarter and didn't return, so Ball could see even higher usage in the short term. There may not be much more ceiling for him to reach, however -- on the season, he's averaging a career-high 30.2 points and 4.6 threes per game with 7.2 assists, 5.4 boards and 1.3 steals.

Ball (calf) will be available for Monday's game against the 76ers, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball has been sidelined for the Hornets' last seven games due to a left calf injury, but the All-Star point guard will make his return Monday while operating on a minutes restriction. In the 10 games prior to his injury, Ball averaged 33.4 points, 7.7 assists and 5.9 rebounds over 35.4 minutes per contest.

Ball (calf) is officially listed as questionable but will go through his pregame workout with the intention of suiting up Monday against the 76ers.

Coach Charles Lee said he feels "pretty good" about Ball getting clearance to play Monday, which would be the All-Star's first appearance since Nov. 27. Before the injury, Ball was in the midst of a superstar stretch, averaging 40.3 points, 8.3 assists and 7.5 rebounds in 37.5 minutes per game over his previous four appearances. However, he's expected to face a minute restriction against Philadelphia.

Ball (calf) is questionable for Monday's game against the 76ers.

Ball has missed seven straight games due to a left calf injury, but he has a chance to return Monday. The All-Star point guard was on fire before the injury, averaging 40.3 points, 8.3 assists and 7.5 rebounds in 37.5 minutes per game over his previous four appearances.

Ball (calf) joined "group/team setting work" at practice Wednesday, Sam Perley of the Hornets' official site reports.

Ball being on the floor to presumably work in position groups and scheme work sheds light on his status, with key next steps being an ascension to partial contact or mini scrimmages. Ball is due for a formal re-evaluation on his left calf strain in coming days.

Ball has been diagnosed with a left calf strain and will be reevaluated two weeks from the date of the injury sustained on Nov. 27.

Ball injured his left calf in the fourth quarter of Wednesday's game versus Miami. Two weeks from that date will be Dec. 11, which means a reasonable estimation for his earliest return may not be until Dec. 19 at Washington following the NBA's in-season tournament. The star guard has averaged career highs in points (31.1) and three-pointers (4.7) this season, both of which rank second league-wide. Additionally, he has logged 5.4 rebounds, 6.9 assists and 1.1 steals in 18 games. Tre Mann (back) has already been ruled out Saturday, but will be the primary option to fill in at point guard when healthy. Other candidates to see increased workloads in Ball's absence are Brandon Miller, Seth Curry, Vasilije Micic and Cody Martin.

Ball has been ruled out for Friday's game against the Knicks due to left calf soreness.

Ball sustained the injury during the final sequence of Wednesday's loss to Miami and will continue to be evaluated. However, it's worth noting that Friday's game is the first half of a back-to-back set, so his absence may simply be precautionary, though Ball should be considered questionable at best for Saturday's matchup against Atlanta. With Tre Mann (back) also out, Vasilije Micic, Nick Smith, Seth Curry and KJ Simpson are candidates for increased roles against the Knicks.

Ball logged 32 points (11-35 FG, 7-20 3Pt, 3-5 FT), 10 rebounds and seven assists across 37 minutes during Wednesday's 98-94 loss to Miami.

Ball scored at least 30 points for the fourth straight game, albeit on high volume and low efficiency. With the Hornets very thin at the moment, Ball has taken it upon himself to shoulder the bulk of the offensive load, firing up 130 shot attempts over those four games. While his shot selection may be somewhat of an issue, the lack of a supporting cast should result in him continuing on his merry way.

Ball (wrist) is available for Wednesday's game against the Heat.

Initially probable, Ball was expected to play through his right wrist soreness. That shooting wrist has been doing a lot of heavy lifting lately as the Hornets deal with injuries. Over the past three games, Ball is averaging 43.0 points on 31.7 field-goal attempts, 8.7 assists, 6.7 rebounds and 1.0 steals in 37.7 minutes.

Ball is probable for Wednesday's game against the Heat due to right wrist soreness, Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald reports.

Ball was a late addition to the injury report, but the Hornets are still planning on their franchise player being in the lineup. Ball is coming off a monster performance against the Magic on Monday in which he produced 44 points (17-30 FG, 4-11 3Pt, 6-8 FT), nine rebounds, seven assists, one block and one steal across 40 minutes.

Ball notched 44 points (17-30 FG, 4-11 3Pt, 6-8 FT), nine rebounds, seven assists, one block and one steal across 40 minutes during Monday's 95-84 loss to the Magic.

Ball was absolutely locked in from the field, where he drilled 56.7 percent of his tries to account for over half of Charlotte's points. He was also productive across the board, falling one rebound shy of a double-double while dishing out a team-high seven assists. Unfortunately, Ball didn't get much help, as Brandon Miller was the only other Hornet to score in double figures.

Ball closed with 50 points (17-38 FG, 6-17 3Pt, 10-13 FT), five rebounds, 10 assists and one steal in 40 minutes during Saturday's 125-119 loss to the Bucks.

It was a career-best performance for Ball, topping the 38 points he'd produced twice, including earlier this month against the 76ers. The fifth-year guard has scored more than 30 points in eight of 12 November games, averaging 30.8 points, 6.9 assists, 4.5 boards, 4.5 threes and 1.2 steals. If he can stay healthy -- he's played only 58 games over the last two seasons -- Ball is headed for a massive fantasy campaign.

Ball contributed 35 points (12-27 FG, 4-14 3Pt, 7-8 FT), six rebounds, nine assists and one steal over 33 minutes before fouling out of Thursday's 123-121 overtime win over the Pistons.

Ball could've won it in regulation for the Hornets with a floater that bounced off the rim, but the star floor general was impactful every time he stepped on the hardwood. Ball has been playing at a high level of late, and he seems to be taking his scoring prowess to the next level. He's scored at least 30 points in five of his last seven appearances.

Ball (finger) is available for Sunday's game against the Cavaliers.

Ball was listed as questionable but didn't appear in any danger of missing the second half of Charlotte's back-to-back set. The All-Star point guard played 36 minutes during Saturday's 115-114 win over the Bucks, posting 26 points, nine rebounds and six assists.

Coach Charles Lee said Ball (finger), who's listed as questionable, will warm up with the intention of playing in Sunday's game against the Cavaliers, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball and Miles Bridges going through their normal pregame routines is a positive sign for their availability, but they likely won't be officially cleared until right before tipoff at 6:00 p.m. ET. Ball played 36 minutes during Saturday's 115-114 win over the Bucks, posting 26 points, nine rebounds and six assists.

Ball is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Cavaliers due to a left finger sprain.

Ball is in jeopardy of missing his first game of the season, and he presumably picked up the finger injury during the first leg of the back-to-back set in the win over Milwaukee on Saturday. If Ball is unable to play, Tre Mann (back), Cody Martin and Vasilije Micic are candidates to receive an uptick in playing time.

Ball registered 26 points (7-20 FG, 1-7 3Pt, 11-11 FT), nine rebounds and six assists over 36 minutes in Saturday's 115-114 win over the Bucks.

Ball struggled with his efficiency from the floor Saturday, but he came up clutch in the fourth quarter when he scored 15 of his 26 points, including the game-winning free throws with just seconds remaining. Since Nov. 1, Ball has averaged 30.1 points, 5.9 assists, 5.0 rebounds and 1.3 steals over 33.8 minutes per game.

Ball posted 35 points (13-27 FG, 6-14 3Pt, 3-3 FT), six rebounds and seven assists across 35 minutes during Tuesday's 114-89 loss to the Magic.

Ball was a one-man wrecking crew for the Hornets in this game, but his efforts were not enough, and the Hornets still lost by 25 points. Ball is enjoying an outstanding start to the campaign and has been one of the top guards in fantasy, regardless of the format. Aside from scoring at least 30 points in his last three games, he's putting up averages of 29.9 points, 6.3 assists, 5.0 rebounds and 1.4 steals per contest in 11 appearances and 33.6 minutes per tilt.

Ball racked up 38 points (13-30 FG, 6-18 3Pt, 6-7 FT), four rebounds, eight assists and two steals over 41 minutes during Sunday's 107-105 overtime loss to the 76ers.

Ball did it all for Charlotte in Sunday's overtime battle, leading all players in the contest in scoring and threes made while pacing the Hornets with a team-best assist total and a team-high-tying pair of steals in a well-rounded performance. Ball set a new season high in scoring and posted his sixth game with at least 30 points, including his second straight. Ball has now connected on at least five threes in six outings, including in three consecutive appearances.

Ball provided 31 points (10-29 FG, 5-18 3Pt, 6-8 FT), seven rebounds, six assists, one block and one steal across 33 minutes during Friday's 103-83 victory over the Pacers.

Ball and Brandon Miller combined for a staggering 60 points in this win -- that's 28 fewer points than the entire output from the Pacers offense. Even though Miller has been grabbing headlines regularly, Ball has been nothing short of spectacular this season. The star playmaker has surpassed the 30-point mark in five of his nine contests to date while also averaging 6.0 assists, 5.0 rebounds and 1.4 steals per contest.

Ball (ankle) has been upgraded to available and will play Wednesday against the Pistons.

Ball was initially deemed a game-time call for this contest, but the upgrade to available suggests the star floor general shouldn't have any limitations or restrictions Wednesday. Ball is averaging 28.6 points, 5.7 assists, 4.6 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game this season, and his presence will give the Hornets a huge boost on both ends of the court.

Ball (ankle) is dealing with general soreness in his right ankle and is a game-time decision for Wednesday's game versus Detroit, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball battling soreness his surgically repaired right angle isn't ideal, but he appears to only be dealing with minor wear and tear. Coach Charles Lee noted that Charlotte playing three games in four nights to start November took a toll on Ball, although there is still a chance that he suits up. Cody Martin (illness) is probable to play while Tre Mann's usage could skyrocket if Ball is unavailable.

Ball is questionable for Wednesday's game against the Pistons with right ankle soreness.

Ball was a late addition to the injury report after the morning shootaround, suggesting he tweaked something there. Given Ball's history of ankle issues, this is something for fantasy managers to watch very closely. If Ball is unable to play Wednesday, Tre Mann would likely see a big usage rate spike with Vasilije Micic potentially becoming more involved.

Ball provided 19 points (6-15 FG, 2-8 3Pt, 5-7 FT), two rebounds, two assists and one steal across 25 minutes during Monday's 114-93 loss to the Timberwolves.

The Hornets had an off night overall, and not a single starter eclipsed 26 minutes on the night as the team fell to 2-5 on the season. Despite this dud, Ball has been very productive overall, posting averages of 28.6 points, 5.7 assists, 4.6 rebounds, 1.4 steals and 4.6 three-pointers through seven contests.

Ball contributed 36 points (15-26 FG, 6-12 3Pt), four rebounds, six assists and three steals across 37 minutes before fouling out of Saturday's 113-103 loss to the Celtics.

Ball was the leading scorer of Saturday's contest, and he did most of his damage from deep as he connected on six three-point shots for the second time this season. Through the first six games of the 2024-25 campaign, Ball is averaging 30.2 points, 6.3 assists, 5.0 rebounds and 1.5 steals over 34.0 minutes per game.

Ball chipped in 19 points (7-20 FG, 4-12 3Pt, 1-1 FT), three rebounds, six assists and two steals over 32 minutes during Wednesday's 138-133 victory over the Raptors.

Ball's shooting line wasn't particularly efficient, but fantasy managers can live with that, especially when factoring in how much he brings to the table and how versatile he is on a game-to-game basis. This was the first time the star guard didn't reach the 20-point mark, but he's still enjoying an impressive start to the campaign with averages of 28.5 points, 7.0 assists, 6.0 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game in his first four contests.

Ball (bruise) racked up 27 points (9-22 FG, 2-10 3Pt, 7-8 FT), eight rebounds, seven assists and one steal in 37 minutes during Saturday's 114-106 loss to the Heat.

Ball struggled from deep and failed to crack the 30-point threshold for the first time through three games. However, it was still a productive outing for the young point guard, who's averaging 31.7 points, 7.3 assists, 7.0 rebounds and 1.0 steals thus far. Whenever Ball is healthy and on the court, he's among the most prolific fantasy producers in the NBA.

Ball (bruise) is available for Saturday's game against the Heat.

The Hornets have upgraded Ball to being available, meaning the star guard should handle his regular workload. He should have a prominent role on offense with Brandon Miller (hip) out.

Ball is listed as questionable for Saturday's game versus the Heat due to a tailbone contusion.

Ball appears to have suffered his injury against Atlanta and could miss Saturday's contest. If Ball is ultimately ruled out, Vasilije Micic, Tre Mann and Seth Curry (knee) are candidates to receive increased playing time.

Ball notched 34 points (10-20 FG, 9-14 3Pt, 5-6 FT), five rebounds, four assists, one block and one steal in 29 minutes before fouling out of Friday's 125-120 loss to the Hawks.

Ball's night could have been much bigger had he not fouled out late in the fourth quarter. Still, his nine three-point makes is a career high, and the 2020 first-round pick has opened up the 2023-24 campaign with back-to-back 34-point outings. Ball and the Hornets will head back to Charlotte to host Jimmy Butler and the Heat on Saturday.

Ball had 34 points (10-20 FG, 4-12 3Pt, 10-10 FT), eight rebounds, 11 assists, one block and one steal over 38 minutes during Wednesday's 110-105 win over the Rockets.

Ball looked every bit the superstar, carrying the Hornets to an impressive road victory in the season-opener. Often talked about for all the wrong reasons, Ball will be looking to put his injury history behind him. Despite wearing ankle braces, he didn't appear limited at all, a welcome sight for anyone who took a chance on him in drafts. He should be an elite source of points, threes, assists and steals, while also converting at a high rate from the free-throw line.

Ball posted 34 points (10-20 FG, 4-12 3Pt, 10-10 FT), eight rebounds, 11 assists, one block and one steal in 38 minutes during Wednesday's 110-105 victory over Houston.

Playing in his first regular-season game since January 26, Ball didn't have to shake off any rust, knocking down 50 percent of his attempts and falling two rebounds shy of a triple-double. He was integral to Charlotte's comeback effort, tallying 20 points, six rebounds and six assists in the second half, alone. Assuming Ball can stay healthy -- he's played 58 games across the last two seasons -- he'll be one of the most valuable point guards in fantasy basketball.

Ball (rest) is available and in the starting lineup for Tuesday's preseason game versus the Knicks.

Ball will return to action Tuesday after sitting out Charlotte's previous preseason contest for rest purposes. The 23-year-old guard appears healthy heading into the regular season after making just 22 regular-season appearances in 2023-24 before missing the remainder of the campaign with an ankle injury.

Ball (rest) won't play in Thursday's preseason game against the Grizzlies, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

The Hornets will give Ball some rest in this preseason contest, meaning Vasilije Micic will start at point guard. Ball is expected to see minutes in the upcoming preseason games before the start of the regular season against the Rockets on Oct. 23.

Ball produced 24 points (7-15 FG, 6-12 3Pt, 4-5 FT), six rebounds, five assists, one steal and one block across 23 minutes during Tuesday's 111-108 preseason win over the Heat.

Ball posted a game-high 24 points while leading either side in both threes made and threes attempted. The 23-year-old missed the majority of the 2023-24 campaign due to right ankle tendinopathy, but his hot start in the preseason bodes well for his return to game action in the regular season. In two preseason appearances, Ball has already accumulated 42 points, 12 assists, 10 rebounds, two steals and two blocks across only 42 combined minutes.

Ball finished Sunday's preseason opener against the Knicks with 18 points (6-14 FG, 4-10 3PT, 2-2 FT), seven assists, four rebounds, one steal and one block in 19 minutes.

The star point guard missed 60 games last season and hadn't been on an NBA court since Jan. 26, so it was good to see Ball healthy and back in action. When he's at full strength, Ball is the clear offensive engine in Charlotte, but he makes for a difficult risk/reward proposition in fantasy leagues. While Ball has proven capable of first-round-caliber production, he's played just 58 games over the last two seasons while battling a series of ankle and foot injuries.

Charlotte coach Charles Lee said Monday that Ball (ankle) is ready for training camp this week, Nick Carboni of WCNC reports.

Ball will be sporting braces on both ankles as a preventative measure early on this season, as he's struggled to stay on the floor in recent seasons. Ball said Monday that his ankles are feeling great and that he likes the feeling of the braces. Health is a big question mark for prospective fantasy managers, but his upside is through the roof.

Hornets coach Steve Clifford said he expects Ball (ankle) to be ready in time for training camp, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

This will be a relief to hear for Charlotte fans, as Ball's ankle robbed him of the majority of his 2023-24 season. He made just 22 appearances, averaging 23.9 points, 8.0 assists, 5.1 rebounds, 3.2 three-pointers and 1.8 steals in 32.3 minutes. Ball told reporters that his ankle is feeling better and that he's looking forward to having the full offseason to prepare for 2024-25.

The Hornets announced Thursday that Ball (ankle) will miss the remainder of the season.

Ball hasn't played since Jan. 26 due to an injury the Hornets initially labeled as right ankle soreness before eventually updating his diagnosis as right ankle tendinopathy. Though head coach Steve Clifford suggested earlier this month that Ball was doing more work on the court, the Hornets weren't willing to put a timeline on his return to the court. Ultimately, Ball didn't demonstrate enough progress in his recovery from the right ankle injury to make it back for the final two-plus weeks of the season and will be shut down for the remainder of the campaign as he turns his focus to further rehab. Ball has now played just 58 games over the past two seasons due to injuries, but he was productive during his time on the court when healthy in 2023-24, as he averaged 23.9 points, 8.0 assists, 5.1 rebounds, 3.2 three-pointers and 1.8 steals in 32.3 minutes per game over his 22 appearances. Provided he doesn't require any offseason procedures on his right ankle, Ball should be fully healed ahead of training camp in

Ball (ankle) won't play in Wednesday's game versus the Cavaliers.

Ball will miss his 29th straight game Wednesday while dealing with a left ankle injury. There is no indication that the 22-year-old guard is close to returning to action.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Monday's game against the Cavaliers.

Ball hasn't suited up since late January due to his ankle issue and doesn't yet have a timetable to return. It's unclear whether he'll be back on the court before the end of the regular season.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Saturday's game against the Hawks.

Ball continues to miss time due to right ankle tendinitis, and it's unclear if he'll suit up again this season despite positive reports about his participation in practice at the beginning of March. Vasilije Micic and Tre Mann should continue to lead Charlotte's backcourt in Ball's absence.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Tuesday's game against the Magic.

Ball has not played since Jan. 26 due to right ankle tendinitis. There were positive updates about his participation in practice at the beginning of March, but it's unclear if the Hornets, who are out of the playoff picture, will want him to come back before the end of the regular season.

Ball (ankle) is out for Saturday's game versus the 76ers.

Ball's absence streak will extend to 25 games Saturday due to a right ankle injury. It is unclear when the star point guard will return to action.

Ball (ankle) won't play in Friday's game versus the Suns, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball is set to miss his 24th straight game Friday due to a right ankle injury. With Ball having no return timetable, Tre Mann and Vasilije Micic will likely continue to start in Charlotte's backcourt.

Hornets head coach Steve Clifford said Monday in an interview with "The Wes & Walker Show" of 102.5 The Block Charlotte that Ball (ankle) is "doing more and more" work on the court but remains without a clear timeline to return to game action, Schuyler Callihan of SI.com reports. "He had a good workout [Monday], and did some live," Clifford said of Ball. "I feel like he's getting closer but not quite there yet."

While Clifford's comments offer encouragement that Ball hasn't been shut down from activity as he recovers from right ankle tendinopathy, the lack of clarity regarding when the star point guard might resume playing in games has made it increasingly difficult for managers in redraft leagues to continue holding him. Considering that the Hornets are well out of playoff contention, the team is likely to continue exercising extreme caution with Ball, who may be subject to a minute restriction if and when he eventually makes his return to the lineup. Ball hasn't played since Jan. 26 due to the injury.

Coach Steve Clifford said Thursday that Ball (ankle) hasn't progressed any further in his recovery and doesn't feel healthy enough to play href="https://x.com/british_buzz/status/1763331522998800830?s=46">James Plowright of All Hornets reports.

Ball hasn't played since Jan. 26 due to a right ankle injury. While the 22-year-old guard began to participate in on-court work over the All-Star break, there is no indication that he is bound for an immediate return. Until the Hornets release a firm timetable for Ball to retake the court, Tre Mann will likely continue to start at point guard.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Thursday's game against the Bucks.

Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reported during the All-Star break that Ball was doing on-court work and increasing his workload daily, but the point guard is slated to miss a 16th straight game Thursday. Tre Mann should continue to start at point guard in Ball's absence, while the latter's next chance to suit up will come Friday in Philadelphia.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Tuesday's game against the Bucks.

Despite returning to practice last week, Ball will miss a 15th straight game. The Hornets aren't a contender this season, so they'll presumably take a cautious approach with their star point guard. Ball's next chance to suit up will come Thursday in a rematch against the Bucks in Charlotte, while Tre Mann should continue to start at point guard in Ball's absence.

Ball (ankle) will not play Sunday against Portland.

Ball returned to practice Wednesday, but he'll end up missing his 14th straight game in a row. Considering where the Hornets are in the standings, they are likely to err on the side of caution. Ball should be considered questionable at best for Tuesday against the Bucks.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Friday's game against the Warriors.

Ball returned to practice Wednesday, but it's still unclear when he'll be able to suit up again. He'll miss a 13th straight game Friday, and his next chance to suit up will come Sunday in Portland. While Ball remains sidelined, Tre Mann should continue to play a significant role for the Hornets.

Ball (ankle) participated in Wednesday's practice and is progressing in his recovery but won't play Thursday's game versus the Jazz, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball will miss his 12th straight game Thursday due to a right ankle injury. However, the star guard's return to practice and participation in on-court activities is a good sign that he will retake the floor soon. Ball's next chance to suit up is Friday's matchup with Golden State.

Ball (ankle) won't play in Wednesday's game versus the Hawks.

Ball's absence streak will extend to 11 games Wednesday due to right ankle tendinitis. The 22-year-old guard will have extra time to recover, as Charlotte's next contest doesn't come until after the All-Star Break on Feb. 22 against Utah.

Ball (ankle) is inactive for Monday's game against Indiana.

Ball has not played since Jan. 26 due to right ankle tendinitis. Charlotte will likely continue being extremely cautious with his health, so it's unclear when the 22-year-old will return.

ball (ankle) won't play in Saturday's game versus the Grizzlies.

Ball will miss his ninth straight game Friday while dealing with right ankle tendinopathy. Ball's next chance to suit up is Monday's matchup with Indiana.

Ball (ankle) is out for Friday's game versus the Bucks.

Ball's absence streak will extend to eight games Friday due to a right ankle injury. His next chance to suit up is Saturday's matchup with Memphis.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Wednesday's game against the Raptors.

Per Nick Carboni of WCNC Charlotte, coach Steve Clifford said Monday Ball is still experiencing "a lot of pain" in his right ankle and "doesn't feel comfortable," so it's not surprising to see him ruled out for a seventh straight game. The Hornets continue to update the point guard's status game-by-game, but he may be sidelined through the All-Star break given Carboni's report.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Monday's game against the Lakers.

Ball will miss a sixth straight game, and he doesn't have a timetable to return, though his next chance to suit up will come Wednesday versus Toronto. The point guard is content taking his time so he can play at an All-Star level when he's back on the court, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against Indiana, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball remains without a firm timetable for a return and is set to miss his fifth consecutive matchup while dealing with a right ankle injury. His next opportunity to suit up will arrive Monday against the Lakers.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Friday's game against the Thunder.

As expected, Ball has been downgraded from doubtful to out and will miss a fourth straight game. There's no timetable for Ball's return, but he's content taking his time so he can play at an All-Star level when he's back on the court, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball (ankle) is doubtful for Friday's matchup with the Thunder.

It appears Ball is on track to sit out his fourth straight game, which means we'll continue to see Miles Bridges and Cody Martin help facilitate the offense with Brandon Miller getting an uptick in usage. Ball managers can expect to get official word on his status closer to Friday's tip.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Wednesday's game against the Bulls.

As expected, Ball has been downgraded from doubtful to out and will miss a fourth straight game due to right ankle soreness. The Hornets are expected to be cautious with their superstar point guard given their place in the standings, and Ball, who's dealt with chronic ankle issues early in his NBA career, is content on taking his time so he can play at an All-Star level when he's back on the court, per Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer.

Ball is doubtful to play Wednesday versus Chicago, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball is at risk of missing his third consecutive game while Charlotte manages his right ankle soreness. Frank Ntilikina (hip) is not featured on the injury report, which gives Charlotte additional backcourt depth if Ball cannot suit up Wednesday.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Monday's game against the Knicks.

Ball was questionable for Monday's matchup and will be unavailable for a second consecutive game due to a sore right ankle. Ish Smith, Brandon Miller and Nick Smith are candidates to see increased run Monday, while Ball's next chance to suit up will be Wednesday against the Bulls.

Ball is questionable to play Monday versus the Knicks due to right ankle soreness.

Ball's workload is being carefully managed by Charlotte, and he's at risk of missing his second consecutive game due to lingering soreness. Ish Smith is the only true point guard on the roster if Ball is unable to suit up Monday, but Brandon Miller has been thriving with increased usage of late.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Saturday's game against the Jazz.

Ball was initially tabbed questionable for Saturday's tilt with soreness in his right ankle, but he'll end up watching the contest in street clothes. In his stead, Ish Smith, Nick Smith and Frank Ntilikina are candidates to pick up minutes while Brandon Miller and Miles Bridges will be tasked with a larger offensive role. Ball's next chance to play will come Monday against the Knicks.

Ball is questionable for Saturday's game against the Jazz due to right ankle soreness.

Ball continues to be added to the injury report with an ankle issue, but he's played in seven of his team's last eight contests following his return from a 20-game absence. Expect the team to issue another update on his availability closer to tipoff.

Ball notched 15 points (6-16 FG, 2-9 3Pt, 1-2 FT), two rebounds, eight assists and two steals over 23 minutes during Friday's 138-104 loss to the Rockets.

The third-year point guard has had a productive stat line since returning Jan. 12 from a right ankle sprain that kept him out of action since Nov. 26. He's averaged 22.3 points and 7.6 assists over his last seven appearances, however he's shooting just 28.6 percent from three on 9.0 attempts per game. Ball will look to get his shooting stroke back on track against the Jazz on Saturday.

Ball (ankle) is available for Monday's game against Minnesota.

As expected, Ball has been upgraded from probable to available and will play after missing the second night of a back-to-back Saturday. In four appearances since returning from a 20-game absence, Ball has averaged 26.5 points, 6.3 assists, 4.8 rebounds and 3.3 steals in 33.0 minutes.

Ball (ankle) has been upgraded to probable for Monday's game against Minnesota.

Ball missed the second night of a back-to-back set Saturday due to right ankle soreness and was initially listed as questionable for Monday. However, the All-Star point guard should be back in action versus Minnesota and shouldn't face any restrictions. Since returning from a 20-game absence, Ball has appeared in four games, averaging 26.5 points, 6.3 assists, 4.8 rebounds and 3.3 steals in 30.0 minutes.

Ball (ankle) is questionable for Monday's game against the Timberwolves.

Ball missed the second leg of Charlotte's back-to-back due to right ankle soreness on Saturday, and his status for Monday's game is now in question. The fourth-year pro has averaged 26.5 points, 6.3 assists, 4.8 rebounds and 3.3 steals in 30.0 minutes per game across four appearances since returning from a 20-game absence due to his right ankle, so if he can suit up, a substantial workload should be expected.

Ball (ankle) won't play in Saturday's game versus the 76ers.

Ball has been downgraded from questionable to out Saturday due to right ankle soreness. Terry Rozier will likely receive increased playmaking duties in his absence. Ball's next chance to suit up is Monday's matchup with Minnesota.

Ball is listed as questionable for Saturday's game versus the 76ers due to right ankle soreness.

Ball could miss the second leg of Charlotte's back-to-back Saturday due to an ankle injury that caused him to miss 20 straight games. Terry Rozier would likely take over primary playmaking duties if Ball is ruled out.

Ball closed Friday's 124-120 victory over San Antonio with 28 points (10-13 FG, 4-6 3Pt, 4-5 FT), one rebound, eight assists and three steals over 32 minutes.

After struggling with his shot over his last three games, Ball shot 76.9 percent from the floor and two of his three misses came from beyond the arc. He registered three steals in Friday's win and has tallied three or more steals in three of his last four games. Ball is averaging 26.0 points, 6.0 rebounds, 5.7 assist and 3.3 steals over 29.3 minutes per game in January.

Ball ended Wednesday's 132-112 loss to the Pelicans with 29 points (8-19 FG, 4-12 3Pt, 9-10 FT), five rebounds, seven assists and two steals in 31 minutes.

Ball has struggled with efficiency since returning from a prolonged absence, but he continues to deliver decent numbers on both ends of the court while running the show for the Hornets on offense. In three outings since returning to the hardwood, Ball has been averaging 26.0 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game while logging 29.3 minutes per contest.

Ball had 21 points (9-24 FG, 3-12 3Pt), 10 rebounds, five assists and three steals across 30 minutes during Sunday's 104-87 loss to the Heat.

Ball led all Hornets in rebounds and steals to go along with a handful of assists and finishing as one of three players with 20 or more points in a losing effort. Ball hauled in 10 or more rebounds twice this season, tallying at least 20 points, 10 rebounds and five assists in both of those outings. Ball has scored 20 or more points over his last two games.

Ball finished Friday's 135-99 loss to the Spurs with 28 points (5-14 FG, 3-9 3Pt, 15-16 FT), three rebounds, five assists and five steals over 27 minutes.

Ball had some struggles from the field and lacked the explosiveness he usually has, but that's to be expected given this was his first game since Nov. 26. His accuracy from the free throw line saved his fantasy output, but Ball should go nowhere but up as he ramps up and gets more time on the court. Assuming he doesn't have any setbacks following his first game back, he should be able to handle his regular workload when the Hornets take on the Heat on Sunday.

Ball (ankle) is officially cleared to play in Friday's game in San Antonio.

Things had been trending in this direction for Ball, who has been sidelined since Nov. 26 due to a right ankle sprain. Given the length of his absence, expect at least some sort of minutes restriction for the star guard. He had scored at least 30 points in seven of his previous nine games before suffering the injury.

Ball (ankle), who's officially listed as questionable, is expected to play in Friday's game versus the Spurs after participating in Charlotte's morning shootaround, Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reports.

Ball hasn't played since Nov. 26 due to a right ankle sprain, so if he's cleared to suit up, it's safe to expect at least some sort of restrictions for the superstar point guard. He was off to a stellar start, scoring at least 30 points in eight of his previous nine appearances before suffering the injury, averaging 32.2 points, 8.7 assists, 6.7 rebounds and 1.4 steals in 37.4 minutes per game during that stretch.

Ball (ankle) is questionable for Friday's game against the Spurs.

Ball has been sidelined since late November due to a right ankle sprain, but he's been ramping up over the past month. He resumed individual activities Dec. 8 and was a full participant in Sunday's practice session. The 22-year-old will be in the mix to return to action Friday, but it's possible he faces a minutes restriction if he's cleared to play, even though he's been working on his conditioning in recent weeks.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Wednesday's game against Sacramento.

Ball ascended to full practice with some five-on-five activity Sunday, but being ruled out more than 24 hours in advance of Wednesday's contest doesn't indicate that he's necessarily on the cusp of a return. A return in the short-term remains possible, however, with Friday against San Antonio representing his next opportunity.

Ball (ankle) was a full participant during Sunday's practice and did some five-on-five scrimmaging, Rod Boone of the Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball last played for the Hornets on Nov. 26, but he's been ramping up his activity and is in the final phase of his rehabilitation. While a concrete target date hasn't been set, Boone reports that Ball "could be back in the mix relatively soon." Ball has only 15 games under his belt this season with averages of 24.7 points, 8.2 assists, 5.5 rebounds, 1.4 steals and 3.5 three-pointers.

Ball (ankle) hasn't yet been cleared to take contact in practice and remains without a clear timeline for a return to the Charlotte lineup, Tomer Azarly of ClutchPoints.com reports.

While Ball resumed individual on-court work earlier this month and seems to be progressing his recovery from a right ankle sprain, his return to game action doesn't yet appear to be imminent. Ball will likely need to complete multiple full-contact practices before getting the green light to play, and he could face some restrictions with his minutes for his first few games back whenever he does return. In the meantime, Terry Rozier will continue to serve as the Hornets' starting point guard, opening up more minutes on the wing for the likes of Brandon Miller (ankle), Cody Martin and Bryce McGowens.

The Hornets announced Friday that Ball (ankle) has continued progressing in conditioning, and individual activities and updates on his status will be provided as appropriate.

Ball sprained his right ankle during a Nov. 26 game against Orlando and resumed individual activities Dec. 8. It sounds like things are going around to plan, but the point guard still doesn't have a definitive return timetable. Ball can be considered week-to-week at this point. In Ball's absence, Terry Rozier, Brandon Miller and Gordon Hayward are candidates for elevated usage on a nightly basis, while Ish Smith and Bryce McGowens have garnered increased bench roles.

The Hornets announced Friday that Ball (ankle) has resumed individual activities and will be re-evaluated in a week, Marc J. Spears of ESPN.com reports.

Ball has been dealing with a serious right ankle sprain since late November and is in the midst of an extended absence. He's been evaluated on a week-to-week basis so far, but it's encouraging that he's at least progressing in his recovery process. A firm timetable for his return to game action isn't yet clear.

Ball will be re-evaluated in one week after an MRI confirmed his right ankle sprain.

This means Ball will be re-evaluated around Dec. 7. However, this does not mean that he'll return right away, as Shams Charania of The Athletic previously reported that Ball will miss extended time. Considering Ball's injury history, the Hornets will obviously proceed with caution.

Ball has been diagnosed with a serious right ankle sprain and is expected to miss extended time, Shams Charania of The Athletic reports.

Charania also relays that Ball is currently using a walking boot and crutches to get around. The All-Star point guard was off to a strong start this season, posting 24.7 points, 8.2 assists and 5.5 rebounds per game, but he suffered the injury during Sunday's loss to Charlotte and had already been ruled out for Tuesday's matchup versus New York, which will mark his first absence of the season. Ball was limited to just 36 games last year due to recurring ankle injuries, so this is a concerning development for the 22-year-old. In his absence, Terry Rozier, Gordon Hayward, Miles Bridges and Brandon Miller will lead Charlotte's offense in usage.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Tuesday's game against the Knicks.

As expected, Ball has been downgraded from doubtful to out and will miss his first game of the season. He's reportedly avoided structural damage, but it's unclear how much time he'll miss, though the Hornets will presumably be cautious given Ball missed most of last season with recurring ankle issues. In Ball's absence, Ish Smith, Terry Rozier, Bryce McGowens and Brandon Miller are candidates for increased roles.

Ball (ankle) is doubtful for Tuesday's game against the Knicks.

Ball exited Sunday's game against the Magic due to an ankle injury, and although he avoided structural damage, he'll still likely be forced to miss at least one game due to the issue. He's slated to undergo an MRI on Monday, and the results aren't yet known. A better idea of Ball's long-term status could come into focus once the results of his MRI are revealed, but Ish Smith, Terry Rozier, Bryce McGowens and Brandon Miller are candidates to see increased run Tuesday.

Ball was cleared of any structural damage to his right ankle after undergoing X-rays following his exit from Sunday's 130-117 loss to the Magic and is scheduled to undergo an MRI on Monday, Spencer Percy of the "Buzz Beat" podcast reports.

Ball's 2022-23 season came to an early end after he fractured the same ankle in late February and required surgery, so the fact that his X-ray detected no structural damage can be taken as positive news. However, Ball isn't out of the woods yet, as the upcoming MRI will reveal whether the star point guard sustained any ligament damage. Depending on what the MRI reveals, Ball could still be headed for a lengthy absence, so fantasy managers should check back for an update on his status before the Hornets' next game Tuesday against the Knicks. If Ball is forced to miss time, Terry Rozier would likely shift to more of an on-ball role, which would open a spot in the starting unit for either Brandon Miller or P.J. Washington.

Ball (ankle) is out for the remainder of Sunday's game against the Magic, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball exited the game in the second quarter after getting tangled up with Paolo Banchero following a drive to the basket and he will be unable to return due to a right ankle strain. There has been no official word on Ball's availability going forward, but it wouldn't be shocking if he were to miss some time. Ball finished Sunday's contest with seven points, two assists and one rebound in 14 minutes.

Ball finished with 34 points (13-31 FG, 6-16 3Pt, 2-3 FT), eight rebounds, 13 assists and one steal across 40 minutes during Wednesday's 117-114 victory over Washington.

Ball had plenty of shot volume during Wednesday's matchup, and although he didn't have his most efficient performance, he finished with a team-high scoring total while also posting his second double-double in his last five appearances. He's scored at least 25 points in nine consecutive matchups and has averaged 32.2 points, 8.7 assists, 6.7 rebounds and 1.4 steals in 37.4 minutes per game during that time.

Ball recorded 36 points (15-27 FG, 5-11 3Pt, 1-1 FT), nine rebounds, eight assists, one block and two steals over 41 minutes during Monday's 121-118 overtime victory over the Celtics.

Ball was dynamic once again Monday, leading the Hornets to easily their best victory of the season. He scored at least 30 points for the sixth time in the past eight games, continuing his red-hot form. He has managed to put up first-round value over the past two weeks, averaging 32.3 points per game, adding 6.0 rebounds, 7.4 assists, 1.6 steals and 4.3 three-pointers. While this could be viewed as a sell-high opportunity, managers may simply want to hang on and see whether this turns into a season full of first-round production.

Bell notched 34 points (12-22 FG, 8-13 3Pt, 2-2 FT), five rebounds, nine assists and a steal across 36 minutes in Saturday's 122-108 loss to the Knicks.

Ball has been scorching hot this month, but his impressive individual displays have not been enough to lead a struggling Hornets team to victories on a consistent basis. The team struggles are real, but Ball remains an elite alternative in fantasy and continues to deliver first-round value due to his scoring ability and versatility. However, it must be noted his uptick in usage is also related to the fact that Terry Rozier (groin) remains out. Ball is averaging 27.0 points, 8.0 assists and 5.1 rebounds per game in November.

Ball logged 37 points (12-28 FG, 2-9 3Pt, 11-12 FT), five rebounds, five assists and one steal across 35 minutes during Friday's 130-99 loss to the Bucks.

The fourth-year guard got very little help despite his big solo performance, as no other Hornets starter could scrape together more than 11 points. Ball has scored 25 or more in six straight contests while Terry Rozier (groin) has been sidelined, averaging 31.0 points, 8.0 assists, 6.3 boards, 3.7 threes and 1.5 steals over that stretch, but Charlotte has gone just 1-5 over that stretch.

Ball finished Tuesday's 111-105 loss to the Heat with 28 points (9-26 FG, 4-10 3Pt, 6-6 FT), six rebounds, 11 assists and three steals across 39 minutes. He also had eight turnovers.

Ball struggled with his efficiency, but Tuesday is not a fair representation of his normal environment. Ball was the focal point of Miami's defense with Charlotte missing two starters and only having 10 active players for the contest. That being said, Ball must improve at navigating additional pressure after turning the ball over eight times.

Ball ended Sunday's 129-107 loss to the Knicks with 32 points (13-20 FG, 4-8 3Pt, 2-2 FT), seven rebounds, six assists, one block and one steal over 33 minutes.

Ball has been on an absolute tear of late and reached the 30-point mark for the third time over his last four games. The star floor general is one of the most versatile players in the league when it comes to filling the stat sheet and his numbers back him up. He's averaging 25.2 points, 8.0 assists, 5.0 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game across six November outings.

Ball supplied 34 points (13-22 FG, 3-9 3Pt, 5-7 FT), four rebounds, seven assists and one steal in 36 minutes during Wednesday's 132-116 loss to the Wizards.

The 34 points topped the season-high 30 that Ball produced Sunday against the Mavericks as part of a triple-double, but neither performance got the Hornets a win. The fourth-year guard has come out of his early-season shooting slump with a vengeance -- after stumbling to a 29.7 percent field-goal percentage through his first five games, Ball's gone 24-for-45 (53.3 percent) over the last two contests.

Ball totaled 30 points (11-23 FG, 5-10 3Pt, 3-3 FT), 10 rebounds, 13 assists, one block and one steal across 39 minutes before fouling out of Sunday's 124-118 loss to the Mavericks.

Ball was amid another underwhelming performance prior to sinking eight shots -- including all five of his threes -- in the fourth quarter. Ball looked like he might have tweaked his ankle towards the end of the contest, but sustaining the prime dual-threat activity that was featured throughout Sunday's contest would be huge for Charlotte and fantasy managers alike.

Ball posted 11 points (4-15 FG, 2-7 3Pt, 1-1 FT), two rebounds, 11 assists and two steals over 31 minutes during Saturday's 125-124 victory over Indiana.

Ball shot 26.7 percent from the field and significantly offset his 11 assists with six turnovers and five fouls committed. Through Charlotte's first five games, Ball has failed to exceed 20 points, marking his longest such drought since January of his rookie season. He remains a bounce-back candidate, but struggling against a weak Pacers defense is notable.

Ball totaled 19 points (7-15 FG, 2-6 3Pt, 3-4 FT), one rebound, five assists and one steal across 33 minutes during Wednesday's 128-119 loss to the Rockets.

Ball's pedestrian stat line comes in the context of Charlotte's third straight loss on a night where the team shot 50.0 percent from the field. On the other hand, Ball's 46.7 percent shooting Wednesday marked his most efficient outing of the season. He has yet to exceed 20 points in a game this season, creating a buy-low window with better days likely ahead.

Ball accumulated eight points (3-12 FG, 0-6 3Pt, 2-2 FT), three rebounds, eight assists and two steals across 22 minutes before fouling out of Monday's 133-121 loss to the Nets.

Ball's shooting struggles to begin the season are real, as he's connecting on just 25.0 percent of his field-goal attempts. However, he's somewhat salvaged his fantasy value with consistent contributions in other categories. He's dished out at least eight assists in three straight contests to begin the year and is averaging 2.0 steals-plus-blocks per game. Nonetheless, Ball will have to start putting the ball in the basket consistently to justify his high ADP.

Ball recorded 20 points (4-17 FG, 2-7 3Pt, 10-12 FT), nine rebounds, nine assists, one block and two steals across 33 minutes during Friday's 111-99 loss to the Pistons.

Ball's inefficiency is glaring, but his ability to stuff the stat sheet on a night when Charlotte only mustered 99 points is indicative of how central his role is. Ball is the Hornets' engine, which provides an elite fantasy floor.

Coach Steve Clifford said Ball (ankle) will have a minute restriction during Wednesday's season-opener against the Hawks, Brad Rowland of the Locked On Podcast Network reports.

Ball played 27 minutes during the Hornets' preseason finale versus Boston, but it appears he's still working his way back to a full workload after missing most of last season due to ankle injuries. Clifford said Ball won't play 35 or 36 minutes, but "but he could play 30," per Rowland. Across 36 appearances last year, Ball averaged 35.2 minutes per game.

Ball posted 16 points (5-13 FG, 2-6 3Pt, 4-5 FT), five assists, three rebounds and one steal over 27 minutes in Thursday's 127-99 preseason loss to Boston.

Ball led all Hornets players in scoring and assists while also connecting on a team-leading mark from three in Thursday's preseason finale against the Celtics. Ball posted his third game with 15 or more points out of four preseason appearances, finishing the postseason averaging 15.3 points, 4.8 assists, 4.3 rebounds and 1.0 steals over 22.0 minutes per game.

Ball posted 16 points (7-16 FG, 2-8 3Pt), six rebounds, six assists and three steals over 24 minutes in Sunday's 117-115 win over Oklahoma City.

Ball handed out a team-high-tying assist total while leading the team in steals and finishing as one of four Charlotte players in double figures in scoring in Sunday's preseason victory. Ball has posted at least 15 points and six assists in two of three preseason contests, averaging 15.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 1.3 steals in preseason play.

Ball scored 17 points (5-13 FG, 2-7 3Pt, 5-6 FT), seven assists and two rebounds over 22 minutes in Tuesday's 113-109 preseason loss to the Heat.

Tuesday's game was Ball's first on-court action since he fractured his ankle on Feb. 27. He signed a five-year, $260 million extension on July 1 after posting 23.3 points, 8.4 assists and 6.4 rebounds in 35.2 minutes across 36 games last season. Ball's return is a welcome one for the Hornets and he'll continue to be the face of a youth movement in Charlotte alongside 2023 No. 2 overall pick Brandon Miller.

Ball (ankle) was able to go through practice on Tuesday, Steve Reed of the AP reports.

This is outstanding news for the Hornets, as they often looked like a mess without their floor general last season. Ball underwent surgery on his fractured right ankle way back in March, but he's planning to wear protective braces early on to reduce the risks of a setback.

The Hornets signed Ball (ankle) to a five-year, maximum contract extension worth up to $260 million Saturday, Shams Charania of The Athletic reports.

Ball underwent season-ending ankle surgery in March but is expected to be reading for training camp ahead of the 2023-24 season. The No. 3 pick in the 2020 NBA Draft averaged 23.3 points, 8.4 assists, 6.4 rebounds and 1.3 steals in 35.2 minutes across 36 games last season. While Ball will have to improve upon his 41.1 field-goal percentage, it appears that Charlotte is looking to make him and rookie Brandon Miller the cornerstones of their franchise.

Ball (ankle) said Monday that he expects to be 100 percent healthy for training camp in the fall, the Associated Press reports.

Ball is in the early stages of his recovery from the season-ending surgery he underwent Wednesday to address a fractured right ankle. Though it was his left ankle that he sprained on three separate occasions over his 36 appearances on the campaign, the fractured right ankle may have been a compensation injury. With that in mind, Ball acknowledged the possibility of wearing braces on his ankles moving forward, but for the time being, he plans to wait and see how his rehab unfolds before making any decisions on that front entering the 2023-24 campaign. The upcoming season marks the final year of Ball's rookie deal, but despite his struggles to stay on the court in 2022-23, the Hornets likely remain interested in coming to agreement with the point guard on a lucrative long-term extension.

Ball had successful surgery Wednesday to address a fracture in his right ankle.

Ball has already been ruled out for the remainder of the season but can now begin rehabbing his ankle. Kelly Oubre has replaced the star guard in the starting lineup. Ball will miss a significant chunk of the season for the second time in his three-year career.

Ball (ankle) will miss the remainder of the 2022-23 campaign, Shams Charania of The Athletic reports.

Ball suffered a fractured ankle during Monday's game versus the Pistons, so it's not particularly surprising that the star guard will sit out the remainder of the season. With Ball out of the picture, Terry Rozier could take over as the Hornets' primary point guard, while Dennis Smith and Kelly Oubre are also likely candidates to see added run moving forward.

Ball suffered a fractured right ankle during Monday's game against the Pistons.

Ball's injury is likely to sideline him for the foreseeable future, but it's still too early to establish a timetable for his return. Dennis Smith, Terry Rozier and Kelly Oubre will be asked to carry the backcourt with Ball sidelined.

Ball (right ankle injury) will not return to Monday's game against the Pistons.

It's not surprising that Ball won't be returning to Monday's game with the Hornets currently up by 16 heading into the fourth, but Ball isn't out of the woods yet. He should be considered questionable at best for Wednesday's game against Phoenix, but it wouldn't be shocking to see this injury turn into a multi-game absence with Charlotte sitting on a record of 19-43. Dennis Smith Jr. is worth a speculative add in most leagues.

Ball exited Monday's game with a lower right leg injury.

Ball went down attempting a crossover and headed straight back to the locker room. It appeared he said that he "heard a pop," and while this isn't the same appendage that has cost him so much time on the sidelines this season, it was concerning to see him leave with what appeared to be a non-contact injury. We should get another update shortly, but if he needs to miss time, Dennis Smith Jr. would get a sizeable boost.

Ball closed with 19 points (6-22 FG, 5-16 3Pt, 2-5 FT), seven rebounds and 13 assists in 40 minutes during Saturday's 108-103 victory over Miami.

Ball didn't have his best shooting performance and needed 22 shots to score 19 points, but he still came close to posting a triple-double after notching 13 dimes and seven boards. The flashy point guard has been excellent as a distributor of late and has dished out 10 or more dimes in five of his last six appearances, and he's averaging 24.2 points, 8.3 rebounds and 9.2 assists per game in February.

Ball contributed 32 points (11-21 FG, 5-9 3Pt, 5-5 FT), 10 rebounds, eight assists and two steals over 40 minutes during Friday's 121-113 win over the Timberwolves.

Ball's 32 points led all scorers in the win over Minnesota on Friday night. The young guard also continued his double-double streak coming out of the All-Star break, which has now stretched to five straight. He's had a fantastic month of February so far with notably improved averages in field-goal percentage (44.3), assists (8.8), rebounds (8.4) and steals (1.9).

Ball notched 28 points (10-26 FG, 5-15 3Pt, 3-3 FT), 12 rebounds, 10 assists and one steal in 39 minutes during Wednesday's 120-110 win over the Spurs.

Ball secured a triple-double and nearly reached the 30-point threshold for a second straight game by firing up 26 attempts from the field. He's now hoisted up 10 or more attempts from deep in three straight and has dished out 10 or more assists in four consecutive appearances.

Ball registered 30 points (12-19 FG, 6-10 3Pt), six rebounds and 15 assists across 41 minutes during Monday's 144-138 win over the Hawks.

Ball was tremendous in the victory, scoring a team-high 30 points to go with a season-high 15 assists. Unfortunately, he failed to get to the free-throw line and added nothing on the defensive end. However, he was able to shoot at least 50 percent from the field for the first time in over a week, more than enough for managers to overlook the missing items. His overall production is ramping up to where we thought it might be during the preseason, much to the relief of managers who had to endure a frustrating start to the season.

Ball amassed 18 points (6-16 FG, 3-10 3Pt, 3-5 FT), nine rebounds, 12 assists and two steals in 35 minutes during Saturday's 119-105 loss to the Nuggets.

It took 16 shot attempts for Ball to get to 18 points Saturday night, but he had a solid game overall, coming up one rebound shy of a triple-double for the second straight contest. The young guard is only shooting 40.2 percent for the year, but the volume continues to be there, with averages of 22.9 points, 8.2 assists, 6.1 boards and 1.4 steals per game.

Ball recorded 16 points (6-16 FG, 4-7 3Pt), six rebounds and four assists in 36 minutes during Wednesday's 118-104 loss to the Wizards.

Ball had the hot hand from three-point range, knocking down four of seven attempts from deep. However, he went just 2-for-9 from inside the arc and finished with 16 points, his fewest since he scored 15 against Chicago on Jan. 26. Ball also failed to record any defensive stats Wednesday, which is unusual for him after he had notched multiple thefts in each of his previous four contests.

Ball finished Sunday's 119-113 loss to the Magic with a season-high 33 points (13-24 FG, 6-13 3Pt, 1-2 FT), eight rebounds, six assists and four steals across 38 minutes.

The Hornets' starting backcourt of Ball and Terry Rozier combined for over 50 percent of the team's scoring (50.4 percent, to be precise), and the lack of help sent the team tumbling to its fourth straight defeat and 40th of the season, tying the Rockets and Pistons for the most losses in the league. Since returning from a three-game absence due to ankle and wrist trouble, Ball is averaging 22.7 points, 8.7 boards, 7.7 assists, 3.3 threes and 2.5 steals over the last six contests.

Ball provided 23 points (7-23 FG, 4-13 3Pt, 5-5 FT), eight rebounds, eight assists and five steals across 40 minutes before fouling out of Friday's 118-112 loss to the Pistons.

Ball continues to light up the stat sheet as per usual, but his shooting woes are still lingering. In his previous 10 games, he was hitting just 38.5 percent from the field. The important thing is that he's healthy after missing three games towards the end of January, and he has favorable matchups coming up against the Magic and Wizards to find his rhythm.

Ball totaled 19 points (8-18 FG, 1-5 3Pt, 2-3 FT), eight rebounds, six assists and two steals over 36 minutes before getting ejected from Thursday's 114-98 loss to the Bulls.

Ball couldn't finish the game after picking up his sixth foul late in the fourth quarter, and while his shooting woes were noticeable, he still salvaged his fantasy performance with solid contributions in other categories. Ball has looked outstanding since returning from a three-game absence in late January, averaging 20.0 points, 9.0 rebounds, 8.0 assists and 1.5 steals per game in his last four outings.

Ball closed Tuesday's 124-115 loss to the Bucks with 27 points (10-26 FG, 3-9 3Pt, 4-6 FT), 10 rebounds, 11 assists, three blocks and three steals over 40 minutes.

Ball put up the eighth triple-double of his career in the loss, adding six combined steals and blocks for good measure. Still working his way back from multiple ankle injuries, Ball's counting stats have continued to pick up steam of late. His efficiency remains a work in progress, especially over the past two months, during which time he is shooting under 35 percent from the field. Given his career numbers, this should start to level out assuming he can stay healthy.

Ball amassed 19 points (7-17 FG, 4-13 3Pt, 1-1 FT), seven rebounds, seven assists, one block and one steal across 36 minutes during Sunday's 122-117 victory over the Heat.

Ball finished as one of five Hornets players in double figures in scoring Sunday, posting team-high-tying assist and rebound marks. Ball has tallied at least 15 points, five assists and five rebounds in 13 games this year, including in two straight.

Ball (ankle/wrist) finished Thursday's 111-96 win over the Bulls with 15 points (2-15 FG, 2-11 3Pt, 9-10 FT), 11 rebounds and eight assists in 37 minutes.

Though Ball's third multi-game absence of the season due to a left ankle sprain proved to be more short-lived than his prior two absences, the star point guard endured a rough night in his return to the lineup. While Ball's season-long field-goal percentage dropped to 40 percent after the 2-for-15 outing, he at least managed to fill out the counting categories. Perhaps more importantly, Ball didn't face any limitations with his minutes, offering hope that his ankle -- as well as his more minor right wrist injury -- won't inhibit him moving forward.

Ball (ankle, wrist) will make his return Thursday against the Bulls.

Ball is back following a three-game absence and should return to the starting lineup. With Gordon Hayward (hamstring) also available, Dennis Smith, Bryce McGowens and Jalen McDaniels could see reduced roles. In January, Ball is averaging 23.2 points, 8.7 assists, 4.1 rebounds and 1.1 steals in 34.0 minutes.

Ball (ankle/wrist) is questionable for Thursday's matchup against Chicago.

Ball has missed three straight games due to a left ankle sprain and right wrist soreness. It's unclear if one issue is more severe than the other, but it doesn't look like he's making much progress. If Ball is sidelined for a fourth consecutive contest, Terry Rozier would presumably draw another start. Following Thursday's matchup, the Pelicans next game arrives Sunday against Miami.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Tuesday's game against Phoenix, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

As anticipated, Ball will be held out Tuesday evening due to a left ankle sprain. His next chance to return will arrive Thursday against the Bulls.

Ball (ankle) is doubtful and unlikely to play Tuesday against the Suns, Duane Rankin of The Arizona Republic reports.

This is not an encouraging sign for the point guard, who had been listed as questionable earlier Tuesday. If he ends up missing a third straight contest, then Terry Rozier should operate as Charlotte's primary ballhandler once again.

Ball (ankle/wrist) is questionable for Tuesday's game against the Suns.

Ball has missed back-to-back contests due to a left ankle sprain and right wrist soreness. He's listed as questionable once again, but given he drew the same designation ahead of Charlotte's previous contest, it doesn't shed any clarity on his availability for Tuesday. If he's sidelined again, Terry Rozier figures to be the primary beneficiary.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Monday's game against the Jazz, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball has been downgraded to out after initially being listed as questionable due to a left ankle sprain. Terry Rozier figures to be in line for another start at point guard with Ball sidelined.

Ball (ankle/wrist) is questionable for Monday's game against the Jazz.

Ball was sidelined for Saturday's matchup against Atlanta due to ankle and wrist issues, and his status is up in the air for Monday's game. However, it's slightly encouraging that he's questionable against Utah after being labeled as doubtful ahead of Saturday's game. Dennis Smith and Bryce McGowens will likely see increased run if Ball is unavailable once again Monday.

Ball (ankle, wrist) is out Saturday against the Hawks, Sam Perley of the Hornets' official site reports.

As expected, Ball will sit out after again injuring the same ankle that's already cost him 24 games this season. In his absence, more minutes should be available for Dennis Smith and Bryce McGowens.

Ball is doubtful for Saturday's game against the Hawks with a left ankle sprain and soreness in his left wrist.

Ball exited Wednesday's game against Houston after spraining his ankle and appears to have also picked up a wrist injury in the contest. Although he managed to participate in the non-contact portions of Friday's practice, it is unlikely he will take the floor Saturday considering he has missed long stretches of the season due to the same ankle injury. If Ball misses, Dennis Smith would likely slide into the starting five while Terry Rozier would be in line for a bump in usage.

Ball has been ruled out for the remainder of Wednesday's game against the Rockets due to a left ankle sprain.

Ball suffered the injury in the third quarter when teammate P.J. Washington landed on his ankle coming down from a rebound. Prior to exiting, Ball logged 13 points and four assists across 20 minutes. It's unclear whether or not the injury will affect Ball's availability for Saturday's tilt in Atlanta but Terry Rozier and Dennis Smith figure to reap the benefits of his absence.

Ball closed with 31 points (11-27 FG, 1-8 3Pt, 8-8 FT), seven rebounds, nine assists and one steal in 39 minutes during Saturday's 122-106 loss to the Celtics.

While not as efficient as the previous game, Ball again scored over 30 points on 11 made field goals. He also went a perfect 8-for-8 from the line and came up one assist shy of a double-double. However, he did commit five turnovers for the second straight contest. For category league managers, as long as your punting field-goal percentage or turnovers, Ball continues to be a fantastic asset.

Ball logged 24 points (9-22 FG, 4-9 3Pt, 2-2 FT), four rebounds and 14 assists across 38 minutes during Tuesday's 132-120 loss to the Raptors.

Since returning from an ankle injury in mid-December, Ball has been remarkably productive and consistent. Over 15 games, he's scored at least 20 points 14 times while delivering eight double-doubles and a triple-double, averaging 23.9 points, 8.9 assists, 5.7 boards, 4.4 threes and 1.2 steals. The 11-31 Hornets have a lot of issues on their roster as they head for the draft lottery, but the backcourt pairing of Ball and Terry Rozier hasn't been one of them.

Ball recorded 13 points (5-12 FG, 3-8 3Pt), two rebounds and eight assists over 25 minutes before fouling out of Sunday's 116-111 loss to the Pacers.

Ball was limited to just 25 minutes in the loss as a result of early fouls, eventually seeing him foul out of the game. With reduced minutes came reduced production, much to the disappointment of managers everywhere. With that said, the eight assists were nice, and given his body of work thus far this season, he should be able to turn things around in a hurry.

Ball produced 23 points (7-23 FG, 4-13 3Pt, 5-5 FT), four rebounds, 12 assists and one steal in 35 minutes during Wednesday's 131-107 loss to Memphis.

Matched up against Ja Morant, Ball held his own and recorded his seventh double-double of the season, but he got little help from the rest of the Hornets. The third-year point guard has been on fire since getting healthy in mid-December, starting 12 straight games and averaging 24.8 points, 8.3 assists, 6.4 boards, 4.3 threes and 1.3 steals.

Ball logged 24 points (9-22 FG, 3-10 3Pt, 3-3 FT), seven rebounds, six assists, two blocks and three steals across 38 minutes during Monday's 121-115 loss to the Lakers.

Ball didn't have his most efficient shooting night, but he made a big impact in a variety of other areas. The third-year point guard led the Hornets in assists and finished second in scoring behind Terry Rozier's 27 points. However, Ball's most outstanding fantasy contributions were on defense, as he chipped in a pair of blocks and three steals. He's swatted four shots over his past three games after notching only two blocks over his first 11 contests of the campaign.

Ball amassed 23 points (7-19 FG, 5-14 3Pt, 4-5 FT), seven rebounds, 11 assists and two steals across 36 minutes during Saturday's 123-106 loss to the Nets.

Ball ended just three rebounds away from posting a triple-double, and he has flirted with that mark in five of his last six appearances. The star floor general has been an extremely consistent player, scoring at least 20 points in each of his last 10 contests while also averaging 8.2 assists, 6.6 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game during that span.

Ball provided 27 points (9-15 FG, 5-10 3Pt, 4-4 FT), 10 rebounds, nine assists, two blocks and one steal across 36 minutes during Thursday's 121-113 victory over the Thunder.

Ball led the team in both scoring and assists while finishing one assist shy of a triple-double. Ball has posted two straight 20-point, 10-rebound double-doubles, now having recorded at least 20 points, 10 boards and five assists in two games this year.

Ball recorded 21 points (7-25 FG, 2-11 3Pt, 5-5 FT), 10 rebounds and four assists over 35 minutes during Tuesday's 110-105 loss to Golden State.

Ball somehow managed to scrape 21 points together despite an abysmal night of shooting. He converted only 28 percent of his shots in the loss but made a decent defensive contribution with 10 rebounds.

Ball (shoulder) is active Tuesday against Golden State, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Despite nursing a right shoulder strain, Ball will remain in the lineup versus the defending champions. The guard has averaged 25.6 points, 8.3 assists and 5.6 rebounds across his past seven appearances.

Ball is probable for Tuesday's game against the Warriors due to a right shoulder strain, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

While fantasy managers shouldn't be too concerned about Ball's availability, the injury may affect his play. Since returning from an ankle injury, he's averaged 25.6 points, 8.3 assists, 5.6 rebounds and 1.3 steals in 34.3 minutes.

Ball racked up 27 points (10-26 FG, 4-10 3Pt, 3-4 FT), seven rebounds, seven assists and two steals in 36 minutes before fouling out of Monday's 124-113 loss to the Trail Blazers.

While the Hornets came out on the losing end, it was another strong individual effort from Ball, who's now scored at least 23 points in all seven games since returning from an injury absence. He's shooting 44.0 percent from the field and 41.3 percent from three in that span, while adding 8.3 assists, 5.6 rebounds and 1.3 steals per contest.

Ball racked up 23 points (9-22 FG, 4-12 3Pt, 1-2 FT), eight rebounds, eight assists and three steals over 37 minutes during Friday's 134-130 victory over the Lakers.

Ball flirted with a triple-double after hitting that milestone Wednesday against the Clippers. Since returning from injury, Ball has been rock-solid, scoring no fewer than 23 points over the past six games. He's also logged double-digit assist totals in three of six contests since his return.

Ball totaled 25 points (10-26 FG, 4-13 3Pt, 1-2 FT), 11 rebounds, 12 assists and two steals over 37 minutes during Wednesday's 126-105 loss to the Clippers.

Ball racked up his first triple-double of the season, continuing what has been a rapid ramp-up since returning from injury. In fact, in the five games since he made it back to the court, he has scored at least 23 points in every outing, topping double-digit assists three times. He has also hit at least four triples in every game, flirting with top-20 value. After a frustrating start to the season, managers can hopefully sit back and enjoy what could be a fruitful run into the fantasy playoffs.

Ball logged 23 points (9-19 FG, 5-10 3Pt), five rebounds and 12 assists over 27 minutes before fouling out of Monday's 125-119 win over the Kings.

Ball was quiet offensively in the first two quarters of the contest, scoring just three points. However, he came alive after halftime and particularly in the fourth period, when he scored 16 of Charlotte's 34 points. The big quarter helped Ball finish with his fourth straight game of 23 or more points since returning last week from an 11-game injury layoff. Ball also set a season high with 12 assists Monday.

Ball chipped in 31 points (10-21 FG, 4-9 3Pt, 7-7 FT), five rebounds, five assists and one steal across 36 minutes during Sunday's 119-115 loss to the Nuggets.

Ball looked great despite the loss, popping for a season-high 31 points, including a perfect 7-of-7 from the line. Since returning from his second ankle injury of the season, Ball has gone straight to the top, putting up top-15 value over the past week. Managers have to be thrilled with his production thus far, especially seeing as though he is averaging less than one steal per game. As long as he can remain healthy, Ball could flirt with first-round value ROS.

Ball (ankle) logged 34 minutes in Wednesday's 141-134 overtime loss to the Pistons, finishing with 23 points (9-18 FG, 5-13 3Pt), 11 assists and one rebound.

Though head coach Steve Clifford suggested Ball would play "shorter stints" in his return from an 11-game absence due to an aggravation of the sprained left ankle that sidelined him for the start of the season, the point guard ended up seeing what looked to be a normal allotment of minutes before fouling out of the contest with 30 seconds left in regulation. Perhaps just as importantly, Ball performed as well as ever, shooting efficiently from the field while committing just one turnover. Fantasy managers who had stashed him in an injured reserve spot during his prolonged absence can feel comfortable activating him again.

Ball (ankle) is available for Wednesday's game against the Pistons, Rod Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports. The guard will play in shorter stints but still "a decent amount of minutes."

After an 11-game absence, the Hornets' star will be back on the hardwood. Between two ankle injuries, Ball has appeared in only three games this season, averaging 19.3 points, 7.0 assists, 3.7 rebounds and 1.0 steals in 32.7 minutes. It sounds like he'll be on a light minutes restriction Wednesday, but it should be back to normal fairly quickly. With his return, less usage will presumably be available for Terry Rozier and Kelly Oubre, while Theo Maledon, Bryce McGowens and James Bouknight could see their minutes reduced.

Ball (ankle) has been upgraded to questionable for Wednesday's game against Detroit, Rod Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball was initially ruled out for a 12th consecutive game ahead of Wednesday's matchup, but he'll be in the mix to return to the court against the Pistons. Given the length of his absence, it wouldn't be surprising to see his minutes restricted if he's given the green light Wednesday, but he's optimistic that he'll be able to suit up against Detroit.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Wednesday's matchup against the Pistons.

Ball's played in only three games this year while battling a lingering ankle sprain. It's unclear when he'll be able to suit up again, but his next chance will arrive Friday against Atlanta.

Ball (ankle) will not suit up for Sunday's game versus the 76ers.

This is par for the course for Ball this season, with the star point guard limited to just three games played. There's no word on when he's expected back, but Ball will have to wait until Wednesday versus the Pistons for his next opportunity to rejoin the action.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Friday's game against the Knicks.

It's not yet clear when Ball will be able to return to game action as he continues to recover from a sprained left ankle. Dennis Smith (ankle) is also out, so Terry Rozier and Theo Maledon should operate as the Hornets' top two point guards Friday.

Ball (ankle) remains out for Wednesday's game versus the Nets.

Ball doesn't have a clear timetable for his return to the floor, and there haven't been any indicators of his progress of late. With Dennis Smith (ankle) also out again, Terry Rozier and Theo Maledon should handle most of the point guard duties.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Monday's game against the Clippers.

It will be the eighth straight absence for Ball due to a sprained left ankle. The 21-year-old has played in only three games all season and remains without an official timeline for his return. Dennis Smith (ankle) is also out, leaving Terry Rozier and Theo Maledon to handle point duties.

Ball (ankle) remains sidelined for Saturday's game versus the Bucks.

Ball will miss his seventh consecutive tilt because of his ankle problem and has appeared in only three games all season, causing headaches for fantasy managers. The team hasn't offered any specific target date for the star point guard's return, but his next opportunity arrives Monday against the Clippers. Terry Rozier should operate as the primary ball-handler with Ball and Dennis Smith (ankle) out again. Theo Maledon should also mix in a healthy amount.

Ball (ankle) is out Friday against the Wizards.

Ball will miss a sixth straight game Friday. The Hornets will at least be getting Terry Rozier (illness) back following a one-game absence.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Monday's matchup against Boston, Rod Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball will miss a fifth straight game after aggravating an ankle injury that cost him the first month of the season. Dennis Smith (ankle) also remains out, so Theo Maledon, Terry Rozier, James Bouknight and Bryce McGowens are all candidates for increased roles.

Ball (ankle) will miss Friday's game versus the Timberwolves.

Ball continues to work his way back from a bothersome ankle issue that surfaced late in just his third appearance of the year for Charlotte. With Ball and Dennis Smith (ankle) sidelined again, Terry Rozier, Theo Maledon and James Bouknight are among the candidates to see additional time at point guard.

Ball (ankle) will remain sidelined for Wednesday's game versus the 76ers.

Ball will skip his third straight game while dealing with an ankle issue he suffered last Wednesday in just his second contest of the season. Given his previous with the same ankle to open the season, the team will presumably take a cautious approach to bring him back. Ball's next chance to return arrives Friday versus the Timberwolves.

Ball (ankle) will not play in Sunday's affair with the Wizards.

Ball will miss a second straight contest due to a left ankle sprain suffered Wednesday after stepping on a fan sitting courtside. With Dennis Smith (ankle) questionable, the Hornet's backcourt will rely on the likes Terry Rozier, Theo Maledon and James Bouknight on Sunday. Ball's next opportunity to take the floor will come Wednesday against Philadelphia.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Friday's game against Cleveland, Rod Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball went to the locker room in the fourth quarter of Wednesday's loss to the Pacers after rolling his ankle, and he underwent X-rays after the game that came back negative. He was unable to practice Thursday and will be forced to miss at least one game. Coach Steve Clifford said Thursday that he didn't know how long Ball would be sidelined, so it's possible that he'll be forced to miss more than one matchup.

Ball appeared to roll his left ankle during the fourth quarter of Wednesday's game against the Pacers and was helped to the locker room shortly after, Sam Perley of the Hornets' official site reports.

Ball was unable to finish Wednesday's contest after stepping on a fan's foot, and it's feared that he may have reaggravated the same left ankle injury that caused him to miss the start of the season. Further testing should provide more details regarding the extent of the injury, but at this point it wouldn't be surprising if Ball were to miss a game or two going forward. Charlotte's next game will take place Friday in Cleveland.

Ball had 17 points (6-19 FG, 4-15 3Pt, 1-1 FT), four rebounds and nine assists in 34 minutes during Monday's 112-105 win over Orlando.

Ball struggled from the field, but that was an issue that plagued the entire Hornets offense despite the fact they came away with the victory. Regardless of those shooting woes, just seeing Ball back on the court should be a welcomed sign for both Charlotte fans and fantasy managers alike, as the star point guard missed the first 13 games of the campaign due to a nagging injury, and while some rust is to be expected in his first games back, he posted a strong stat line and ended just one assist shy of a double-double. If we also consider that he surpassed the 30-minute mark, then the signs are clearly encouraging for the third-year floor general.

Ball finished Saturday's 132-115 loss to the Heat with 15 points (6-17 FG, 1-9 3Pt, 2-2 FT), six rebounds, six assists and one steal across 28 minutes.

Ball didn't shoot well -- particularly from beyond the arc -- in his first game of the campaign, but that didn't shake his confidence as he tied for the team lead with 17 shot attempts. The dynamic point guard was also productive as a rebounder and distributor, and he felt good enough coming off a Grade 2 left ankle sprain to log 28 minutes. Though this was by no means Ball's best performance, fantasy managers who have waited patiently for him to get healthy should be pleased to have him back in their lineups. Ball will likely increase both his efficiency and counting stats as he shakes the rust from missing Charlotte's first 13 games.

Ball is active for Saturday's game versus the Heat, Rod Boone reports.

Ball will likely make his season debut after missing the beginning of 2022-23 due to a left ankle sprain. With Dennis Smith (ankle) out, Ball should start next to Terry Rozier in the backcourt Saturday.

Ball (ankle) is set to make his season debut Saturday against Miami, Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reports.

Ball has been recovering from a Grade 2 left ankle sprain for a little more than one month and is finally expected to make a return to action Saturday, barring any setbacks. Considering the lengthy absence, Ball will likely be under some sort of minutes restriction, however, no such circumstances have been announced quite yet. Ball's return would likely send Dennis Smith (ankle) back to the bench.

Ball (ankle) has been upgraded to questionable ahead of Saturday's matchup with the Heat, Rod Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball could potentially make his season debut, as he has been sidelined to start the year with an ankle injury. The team has been quiet about his timetable to return, so this news is relatively surprising. Still, confirmation on his status will depend on how he is feeling closer to tip-off, and he will no doubt be facing a minutes restriction should he ultimately get the green light.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Saturday's game against the Heat.

Ball hasn't yet played this season due to an ankle injury and will remain sidelined Saturday. His next chance to suit up will be Monday against Orlando, but he doesn't yet have a clear timetable to return.

Ball (ankle) won't play in Thursday's game against Miami, Walker Mehl of Locked On Hornets reports.

Coach Steve Clifford confirmed in his Wednesday post-game press conference that Ball will indeed be unable to return for at least one more contest. Although there aren't any indications as to when Ball will return to the lineup, it doesn't seem like the guard will be able to suit up for the team's next matchup Saturday against the Heat as well.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Wednesday's matchup against Portland.

Ball has yet to play this season due to an ankle injury. He'll likely be sidelined for the second half of Charlottes back-to-back set Thursday as well, so the point guard's next chance to suit up will presumably come Saturday against Miami.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Monday's game against the Wizards.

Coach Steve Clifford said late last week that he believes Ball will be back in action soon, but the point guard will be unable to make his season debut against Washington on Monday. Dennis Smith (ankle) is questionable for Monday's matchup, and Theo Maledon and Terry Rozier would likely see increased run if Smith joins Ball on the list of inactive players.

Ball (ankle) won't play in Saturday's game versus the Nets, Rod Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball is expected to rejoin the action relatively soon but will sit out at least one more contest Saturday. Terry Rozier (ankle) is considered questionable and could take over some on-ball duties from Dennis Smith if he returns, though Smith has played well of late in a starting role.

Hornets coach Steve Clifford said Thursday that he believes the Hornets can get Ball (back) in the next couple of days, Sam Perley of the Hornets' official site reports.

Clifford added that Ball is "able to do a little bit of contact now" as well as be a full participant in shootaround. The 2020 No. 3 pick has yet to make his season debut due to a sprained left ankle but should be returning soon. Dennis Smith is likely to remain the starting point guard while Ball is out.

Ball (ankle) remains out Friday against the Grizzlies.

Ball has yet to play this season and is without a firm timetable for a return. The Hornets next play Saturday against the Nets.

Ball (ankle) remains out for Wednesday's game against the Bulls, Rod Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball doesn't have a firm timetable for his return to action, but his next opportunity to do so surfaces Friday against the Grizzlies. With Terry Rozier (ankle) also doubtful, Dennis Smith figures to handle starting duties on the ball again Wednesday.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Monday's game against the Spurs.

Ball's season debut continues to be delayed due to a sprained left ankle. His next opportunity to suit up will come Wednesday against the Bulls.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Saturday's game against the Warriors.

Ball continues to work his way back from a sprained left ankle and will remain sidelined for a sixth consecutive contest. His next opportunity to make his 2022-23 debut will arrive Monday against the Kings.

The Hornets exercised Ball's fourth-year team option for 2023-24 on Thursday.

Ball will become a restricted free agent after the 2023-24 season. While the 2020 No. 3 pick has yet to play this season, the Hornets clearly view him as a cornerstone of their future. Ball averaged 20.1 points, 7.6 assists, 6.7 rebounds and 1.6 steals in 32.3 minutes across 75 games last season.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Friday's game against the Magic.

Ball continues to deal with a sprained left ankle and will be sidelined for a fifth consecutive game to begin the 2022-23 season. Terry Rozier (ankle) and Cody Martin (quadriceps) are considered doubtful for Friday's matchup, so Dennis Smith, James Bouknight and Kelly Oubre should see plenty of run in Charlotte's backcourt.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Wednesday's contest against the Knicks.

Ball will miss a fourth straight game to start the 2022-23 campaign due to a left ankle sprain he suffered during the preseason. Backup point guard Terry Rozier (ankle) is also doubtful once again, which paves the way for Dennis Smith, James Bouknight and Theo Maledon to garner increased roles for a second consecutive contest.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Hawks.

Ball's timetable to retake the floor remains open, but he will skip a third straight tilt to open the season Sunday. Making things worse for the Hornets, backup point guard Terry Rozier (ankle) is also doubtful for the tilt, presumably leaving Dennis Smith, James Bouknight and Theo Maledon as the team's primary options on the ball.

Ball (ankle) will remain sidelined for Friday's game against the Pelicans.

Ball doesn't have a clear-cut timetable for his return to action from a Grade 2 ankle sprain, so his status should be monitored on a game-to-game basis. Terry Rozier should continue to operate as the team's primary point guard in his absence, while Kelly Oubre took over the fifth starting spot in the opener.

Ball (ankle) will not play during Wednesday's season opener against the Spurs, Rod Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Unsurprisingly, Ball's Grade 2 ankle sprain will keep him out Wednesday, and fantasy managers shouldn't be surprised if the third-year point guard is shelved for another week or so. In the meantime, Terry Rozier will pick up more playmaking responsibilities, which should open up minutes on the wing for Cody Martin, Kelly Oubre and Jalen McDaniels.

Ball is "highly doubtful" for Wednesday's season opener against the Spurs, Rod Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball was said to be highly doubtful by head coach Steve Clifford on Monday, following Ball's Grade 2 ankle sprain suffered last week that has since kept him out of practice. If the 21-year-old misses Wednesday's tilt, Terry Rozier would likely slide into the starting point guard role while reserves Dennis Smith and James Bouknight would be set to see extra run off the bench.

Ball has been diagnosed with a Grade 2 left ankle sprain and is slated to miss the start of the regular season, Shams Charania of The Athletic reports.

Ball is viewed as a borderline first-round selection in many fantasy formats, but this news drops him down the ranks a bit. The exact timetable for his return to action remains unclear, but he will miss the remainder of the preseason and likely some regular-season action as a result. More information on his status should surface as Opening Night approaches, but Dennis Smith could be a candidate to add some early-season value in Ball's absence.

Coach Steve Clifford indicated Tuesday that Ball (ankle) will undergo an MRI in the afternoon, Rod Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

The Hornets have already ruled Ball out for the preseason finale, but the MRI may provide more intel regarding his availability for the season opener versus the Spurs on Oct. 19. When healthy, Ball figures to be a premier fantasy option in 2022-23 coming off of career marks of 20.1 points, 7.6 assists and 6.7 boards over 32.3 minutes per game last season.

Ball (ankle) has been ruled out of Wednesday's preseason game against Washington, Jason Owens of Yahoo! Sports reports.

The team is hopeful that Ball's injury isn't a serious ankle sprain, but they are unlikely to know more until he's re-evaluated over the next few days. He'll be held out of the preseason finale to maximize his recovery time with the hope that he'll be ready in time for the regular season opener Oct. 19 in San Antonio.

Ball has been ruled out for the remainder of Monday's preseason game against Washington due to a left ankle sprain.

The extent of Ball's injury is unclear at this time, but this is a concerning development for the Hornets with the regular season just over a week away. He'll likely be re-evaluated over the next few days to determine his status moving forward.

Ball scored 12 points (5-13 FG, 0-3 3 Pt, 2-4 FT) with seven assists, five rebounds and a steal over 27 minutes against the Pacers on Wednesday.

Ball knocked down his first two shots of the game but went just 3-of-11 from the field for the rest of the game. It was a bit of a sloppy performance for the star point guard, as he also turned it over four times in the game, including three turnovers in the third quarter - two of which came off steals from Buddy Hield. On a positive note, Ball did record four assists in the third quarter before sitting out for all of the fourth.

Ball posted 14 points (5-19 FG, 2-8 3Pt, 2-2 FT), seven rebounds, four assists and a steal across 25 minutes in Sunday's 134-93 loss to the Celtics.

Ball ended up as Charlotte's second-best scorer and also led the team in both rebounds and assists, but those numbers won't matter much if he struggles with efficiency as he did in this game. It's only the first game of the preseason, though, and he should get sharper as he gets more on-court time. Even if he has an off game from time to time, Ball should garner plenty of fantasy value due to his ability to contribute in a number of categories at an above-average level.

Ball posted 14 points (5-19 FG, 2-8 3Pt, 2-2 FT), seven rebounds, four assists and a steal across 25 minutes in Sunday's 134-93 loss to the Celtics.

Ball ended up as Charlotte's second-best scorer and led the team in rebounds and assists, but those numbers won't matter much if he struggles with efficiency as he did in this game. It's only the first game of the preseason, though, and he should get sharper as he gets more on-court time. Even if he has an off game from time to time, Ball should garner plenty of fantasy value due to his ability to contribute in several categories at an above-average level.

Ball racked up 24 points (8-16 FG, 6-7 3PT, 2-2 FT), 10 rebounds, nine assists and one steal in Sunday's 124-108 win over Washington.

Ball couldn't miss from deep as he knocked down four-plus threes for the fourth straight game. The second-year guard reached double-digit rebounds for the first time in almost two months but fell one assist shy of his sixth triple-double of the season.

Ball accumulated 24 points (8-16 FG, 5-9 3Pt, 3-3 FT), five rebounds and nine assists in 29 minutes during Friday's 133-117 win over Chicago.

For the second game in a row, Ball surpassed the 20-point mark and ended just one assist away from recording a double-double. The second-year floor general has improved significantly this year compared to his rookie campaign and is ending the regular season on a strong note, averaging 20.5 points, 10.5 assists and 5.2 rebounds per tilt over his last six appearances -- a span in which he also recorded three double-doubles.

Ball registered 26 points (10-21 FG, 4-10 3Pt, 2-2 FT), eight rebounds, nine assists and four steals in 35 minutes during Thursday's 128-101 win over Orlando.

Since the beginning of February, Ball has shot an impressive 41.3 percent from beyond the arc. Showcased on Thursday, Ball entered the history books by joining peers Luka Doncic and Anthony Edwards as the only players in league history to make 300 triples before turning 21 years old. The Hornets are bound for the play-in tournament with two games remaining in the campaign.

Ball ended Tuesday's 144-115 loss to Miami with 18 points (7-13 FG, 4-9 3Pt), five rebounds, 14 assists and one steal over 34 minutes.

Ball registered a double-double for the third time over his last four appearances, but the Hornets have just one win during that stretch. Over his last seven appearances, the second-year point guard has averaged 22.7 points, 9.1 assists, 5.4 rebounds and 2.0 steals in 34.7 minutes per game.

Ball ended with 22 points (8-21 FG, 4-11 3Pt, 2-2 FT), six rebounds, 11 assists and two steals in 34 minutes during Monday's 113-109 loss to Denver.

Ball didn't have his best shooting performance and needed 21 shots to score 22 points, but he posted solid numbers across the board in other categories. This was his second double-double over his last seven appearances, but his role as a scorer and playmaker is noticeable in the Hornets' offensive scheme. He's averaging 21.7 points, 7.7 assists and 6.1 rebounds per game over his last 10 contests.

Ball racked up 33 points (10-21 FG, 7-12 3Pt, 6-8 FT), seven rebounds, nine assists and three steals in 37 minutes during Sunday's 119-110 win over the Nets.

Ball was magnificent in the win, topping all scorers with a game-high 33 points as the Hornets took down the Nets. This was certainly a statement performance for the sophomore star, reminding everyone of just what he is capable of on a basketball court. The Hornets are going to be pushing hard for as many wins as possible down the stretch, making Ball a lock to finish the season on a high.

Ball accumulated 21 points (9-22 FG, 2-6 3Pt, 1-1 FT), four rebounds, five assists and two steals across 34 minutes during Friday's 107-101 win over Utah.

Ball finished with at least 20 points and five assists for a second straight game and added multiple steals for a 29th time this season. Over his last 10 contests, the reigning Rookie of the Year has averaged 21.0 points, 7.1 assists, 6.1 rebounds and 1.5 steals in 31.9 minutes per game.

Ball totaled 32 points (13-23 FG, 6-14 3Pt), nine rebounds, five assists and one steal in 39 minutes during Wednesday's 121-106 loss to New York.

Ball reached the 30-point mark for the first time since Feb. 11 and continues to play at a high level on offense for the Hornets. Aside from being a double-double threat every time he sees action due to his rebounding and passing ability, it's worth noting that his three-point percentage is going up in the right direction. He's made at least four threes in each of his last five contests and is hitting 51 percentage of his long-range connections in that span.

Ball totaled 17 points (6-12 FG, 4-9 3Pt, 1-1 FT), four rebounds, nine assists and two blocks over 32 minutes during Monday's 106-103 win over the Pelicans.

Ball drilled four shots from beyond the arc in the win, and he's now knocked down 19 threes over his last four contests. He's also managed to finish with 17 or more points in each of those games while continuing to find success in distributing the basketball (8.5 assists per game over that stretch).

Ball finished Saturday's 129-108 victory over the Mavericks with 17 points (6-12 FG, 5-8 3Pt), four rebounds, seven assists, one block and four steals across 30 minutes.

He was one of five different Hornets to scored at least 17 points and sink at least three three-pointers in the rout. Ball is on a roll, scoring at least 15 points in seven straight games and averaging 20.0 points, 7.4 assists, 6.1 boards, 3.3 threes and 1.7 steals over that stretch.

Ball posted 22 points (7-16 FG, 5-10 3Pt, 3-3 FT), 11 assists, eight rebounds, one block and one steal over 36 minutes during Wednesday's 116-106 win over the Hawks.

Ball reached double figures in multiple categories for the first time since recording a triple-double back on February 17, prior to the All-Star break. Over the last six games, he's averaged 20.5 points, 7.5 assists, 6.5 rebounds and 1.3 steals across 30.7 minutes per game. He'll look to continue to fill the stat sheet Saturday against the Mavericks.

Ball contributed 17 points (6-12 FG, 2-7 3Pt, 3-4 FT), six rebounds, nine assists and three steals over 31 minutes during Friday's 142-120 victory over the Pelicans.

Ball scored in double figures for a fourth consecutive game and dished out a team-high nine assists -- his most assists since Feb. 17. The second-year point guard also displayed his defensive prowess, registering at least three steals for the 14th time during the campaign. The Hornets have lost three straight games and will look to get back into the win column Monday against the Thunder.

Ball amassed 24 points (9-22 FG, 2-8 3Pt, 4-5 FT), five rebounds, seven assists and two steals over 30 minutes during Tuesday's 132-121 loss to the Nets.

Ball might have posted a decent stat line, but he struggled badly from the field as he needed 22 shots just to score 24 points. Despite the shooting woes, it's worth noting that Ball continues to be an asset on both ends of the court for the Hornets even on games in which he's not all that efficient. He has scored exactly 24 points in three of his last four games.

Ball scored 24 points (7-16 FG, 4-9 3Pt, 6-6 FT) while adding eight rebounds, seven assists and a block in 29 minutes during Saturday's 123-117 win over the Spurs.

The second-year point guard flashed his skill set in a strong bounce-back performance after early foul trouble limited him to only eight minutes against the Cavaliers on Wednesday. Ball still needs to learn to play with more control and consistency, but his overall results remain promising, and even with the one dud in the mix the 20-year-old is averaging 20.5 points, 6.5 assists, 6.1 boards, 3.4 threes and 1.5 steals over the last 10 games.

Ball produced two points (0-3 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 2-2 FT), four assists and two steals across eight minutes Wednesday in the Hornets' 119-98 win over the Cavaliers.

For the first time all season, Ball played fewer than 20 minutes. At first glance, fantasy managers may have feared that Ball's night ended early due to an injury or ejection, but it was foul trouble that kept him off the floor for the majority of the game. He picked up his second foul of the game less than five minutes into the contest, then was assessed a third foul with just under two minutes left in the quarter. After sitting out the entire second quarter, Ball picked up his fourth foul three minutes in the third quarter, and with Charlotte sitting out a big lead by that point, head coach James Borrego elected not to reinsert the star point guard for the rest of the night. Fantasy managers shouldn't panic about Ball's outlook moving forward after the game script played out about as badly as possible Wednesday.

Ball registered 24 points (9-18 FG, 4-7 3Pt, 2-2 FT), four rebounds, two assists and one steal in 30 minutes during Monday's 130-106 loss to the Bucks.

After taking a back seat to Terry Rozier and Miles Bridges in Sunday's loss, Ball regained his footing as the team's top-scoring option. The Hornets' tight rotation allows maximum opportunity for all of Charlotte's starters, and Ball will continue to benefit, logging as many minutes as he can handle.

Ball recorded eight points (3-6 FG, 1-4 3Pt, 1-2 FT), two rebounds, two steals and one assist during Friday's 50-48 loss to Team Barry during the Rising Stars competition at All-Star Weekend.

Ball's performance was lackluster, but he did hit a fadeaway corner three that ignited the Cleveland crowd early in the contest. However, the defense and physicality from Team Barry ratched up as both teams got closer to the 50-point target, which left easy buckets hard to come by.

Ball produced 14 points (5-15 FG, 1-9 3Pt, 3-4 FT), 10 rebounds, 14 assists and one block in 39 minutes before fouling out of Thursday's 111-107 double-overtime loss to the Heat. He also had five turnovers.

Ball racked up points, rebounds, assists, fouls and turnovers. He fouled out for the fifth time this season, including now having done so in back-to-back games. Ball couldn't buy a three and his hands were somewhat tied in terms of his ability to be aggressive in the lane due to the foul trouble. Still, his plus-one in the box score was the best among the starting unit. Ball and the Hornets enter the All-Star break on a 1-9 skid over the last 10 contests.

Ball ended with 22 points (8-22 FG, 3-8 3Pt, 3-5 FT), nine rebounds, six assists, one block and one steal across 41 minutes before fouling out of Tuesday's 126-120 overtime loss to the Timberwolves.

Ball wasn't especially efficient, but he still stuffed the stat sheet like usual. Tuesday's effort marked his fourth straight game with at least 22 points and his fifth straight game with at least one steal.

Ball closed Saturday's 125-118 loss to the Grizzlies with 25 points (8-21 FG, 5-12 3Pt, 4-4 FT), four rebounds, two assists and one steal across 33 minutes.

Ball might have delivered a solid stat line in terms of scoring, but the fact that he needed 21 shots to score 25 points was not ideal -- and his passing and rebounding numbers were not really on par with what he's done all season long. The second-year guard still salvaged his fantasy day due to his scoring, but this wasn't one of his finest performances.

Ball accumulated 31 points (10-14 FG, 7-9 3PT, 4-5 FT), five rebounds, 12 assists and four steals across 32 minutes in Friday's 141-119 win over the Pistons.

Ball's sensational sophomore campaign continued Friday with another big stat line. He has improved significantly in points, rebounds, assists and triples in his second year. The All-Star is now averaging 24.0 points, 6.0 rebounds, 6.8 assists, 2.3 steals and 3.5 triples across 34.4 minutes in six games during the month of February.

Ball racked up 33 points (12-25 FG, 5-10 3Pt, 4-6 FT), nine rebounds, five assists and four steals in 38 minutes during Wednesday's 121-109 loss to Chicago.

Ball was excellent Wednesday, even swiping four steals for the second consecutive game. As a team, Charlotte shot just 30.2 percent (13-for-43) from beyond the arc, holding back Ball's assist ceiling. Charlotte has lost six consecutive games, making it especially relevant if any help is brought in before the February 10 deadline.

Ball amassed 15 points (5-19 FG, 1-6 3Pt, 4-5 FT), four rebounds, nine assists and four steals over 44 minutes during Monday's 116-101 loss to the Raptors.

After scoring a career-high a career-high 38 points on Friday, Ball has shot just 34.1 percent form the field over his last three contests. However, he's still been able to score in double figures in each of those games. He salvaged his fantasy production by dishing out a team-high nine assists and snatching four-plus steals for the fifth time this season. Ball continues to be a sporadic scorer, but his contributions across the box score are what make him a reliable fantasy option moving forward.

Ball totaled 38 points (12-24 FG, 4-10 3Pt, 10-13 FT), six rebounds, nine assists and two steals across 39 minutes during Wednesday's 113-107 loss to Boston.

Ball exploded for a season-high 38 points Wednesday, notching his fifth 30-point game of the season. He also led the team in assists and grabbed at least five rebounds for a fourth straight game. Over his last five contests, the second-year point guard has averaged 27.0 points, 8.2 assists, 6.2 rebounds and 1.4 steals in 36.2 minutes. He'll look to continue his strong play against the Cavaliers on Friday.

Ball ended Wednesday's 158-126 win over Indiana with 29 points (11-16 FG, 3-4 3Pt, 4-5 FT), 10 rebounds, 13 assists, one block and one steal over 38 minutes.

Those impressed by Ball's 25 point showing Tuesday should be enamored by this triple-double, in which the 20-year-old logged an unreal plus-45 in the box score. Ball recorded his fourth triple-double of the year, capping off a signature win for Charlotte. Ball is trending upwards with the Hornets 7-3 over their past 10 games.

Ball recorded 25 points (8-16 FG, 1-5 3Pt, 8-9 FT), three rebounds, seven assists and one steal over 32 minutes during Tuesday's 125-113 loss to the Raptors.

The Hornets might have lost in this one, but Ball delivered another impressive outing and found a way to contribute steadily on both ends of the court. The second-year point guard has experienced quite an uptick in his play compared to his rookie year and he's averaging 19.1 points, 7.6 assists and 7.2 rebounds on the season -- all three figures would be career-best marks for him.

Ball produced 15 points (5-15 FG, 3-6 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 10 rebounds, 10 assists and one block in 32 minutes during Wednesday's 111-102 win over the Celtics.

Ball was held out of Charlotte's last contest due to an illness, but showed no signs of rust in his return to action. The dynamic point guard was dropping dimes left and right en route to his third triple-double this season. Ball is averaging 17.7 points, 6.7 rebounds and 6.8 assists per game over his last 10 appearances and remains an elite fantasy option at point guard each night the Hornets take the court.

Ball (illness) isn't included on the Hornets' injury report in advance of Wednesday's game against the Celtics.

Though the Hornets made Ball available Monday after he was listed as questionable leading up to the game with the Knicks due to a non-COVID-19-related illness, he ultimately didn't start or leave the bench in the Hornets' 97-87 win. Ball's absence from the injury report heading into Wednesday implies that he should be able to reclaim his normal spot in the starting five, after the Hornets made him available only in an emergency Monday. Cody Martin should head to the bench as a result and see a sharp drop in playing time after he logged a season-high 46 minutes Monday.

Ball (illness) didn't appear in Monday's win over the Knicks.

Ball's status heading into Monday's matchup was murky as he dealt with a non-COVID illness. The Hornets announced just before tipoff that the 21-year-old would be available in spite of his absence from the starting five, but he didn't appear in the win. His next chance to return will be Wednesday against the Celtics, while Cody Martin could draw another start if Ball remains sidelined.

Ball (illness) will be available for Monday's game against the Knicks.

The Hornets waited until the last possible moment to announce the designation, and it looks like Ball will be available off the bench considering the team already released its starting lineup featuring Terry Rozier and Cody Martin in the backcourt. It's possible that Ball's workload could be limited, but this is nonetheless positive news for fantasy managers as the Hornets begin a four-game Week 14.

Ball (illness) is not listed among the Hornets' starters for Monday's game against the Knicks.

The team has not officially ruled Ball out, but it looks like it's trending in that direction as he deals with a non-COVID illness. Terry Rozier will shift down to point guard, while Cody Martin enters the lineup at the other guard spot alongside Gordon Hayward, Miles Bridges and Mason Plumlee.

Ball is listed as questionable for Monday's game at New York due to a non-COVID illness.

At this point, Ball will likely be a game-time decision, as the Martin Luther King Jr. Day contest tips off in less than an hour. If Ball is ultimately ruled out, Ish Smith, Terry Rozier and Cody Martin would be the primary beneficiaries. Charlotte has already ruled Kelly Oubre (COVID-19 protocols) out of Monday's game.

Ball provided 23 points (8-19 FG, 4-12 3Pt, 3-3 FT), five rebounds and three assists over 35 minutes during Monday's 103-99 win over Milwaukee.

Ball gave the Hornets a 101-99 lead by connecting on a floater over Wesley Matthews with 15 seconds left in the game and scored 20-plus points for the first time since Dec. 29. Over his last 11 contests, the second-year point guard is averaging 18.1 points, 6.5 rebounds, 6.3 assists and 1.1 steals in 28.7 minutes. He'll aim to lead Charlotte to its fourth-straight victory Wednesday in Philadelphia.

Ball logged 12 points (4-11 FG, 3-9 3Pt, 1-2 FT), eight rebounds, 12 assists, one block and one steal in 30 minutes during Wednesday's 140-111 win over Detroit.

Ball led all players with 12 assists -- his highest mark since Nov. 29 -- and notched his 12th double-double of the season. Since missing six games due to COVID-19 protocols, the second-year point guard has scoured in double figures in nine straight games and is averaging 17.4 points, 6.4 assists and 6.3 rebounds during that stretch. The reigning Rookie of the Year will have a favorable matchup against the Pistons on Wednesday before back-to-back games against the Bucks.

Ball accumulated 17 points (5-12 FG, 3-6 3Pt, 4-6 FT), three rebounds, one assist and one block across 23 minutes during Sunday's 133-99 loss to Phoenix.

While Ball ended as one of Charlotte's best players in this loss, he didn't show his regular stat-filling ability and didn't have his best shooting performance, either. For what is worth, the second-year point guard has now scored over 15 points in five games in a row and should be treated as one of Charlotte's most reliable players going forward.

Ball produced 21 points (8-13 FG, 1-4 3Pt, 4-5 FT), 12 rebounds, nine assists and one steal across 34 minutes during Wednesday's 116-108 win over Indiana. He also had four turnovers.

Ball was flirting with a triple-double by halftime and thoroughly impacted the game -- even ripping down five offensive rebounds. Ball co-led the Hornets in plus-minus (plus-13) and has been one of the most productive players in the league. Ranking within the top-15 in total WAR, Ball is a top-five fantasy point guard with an outside chance at leading the position.

Ball racked up 16 points (6-12 FG, 4-7 3Pt), five rebounds, seven assists and two steals in 25 minutes during Monday's 123-99 win over Houston.

Ball has played just 25 minutes in three of the past four games, and his conditioning may need further acclimation after being in COVID-19 protocols throughout the first half of the month. Nonetheless, Ball led the Hornets in assists and logged a strong plus-17 in the box score Monday. He'll look to expand on this effort Wednesday versus the Pacers.

Ball totaled 16 points (5-11 FG, 1-5 3Pt, 5-5 FT), five rebounds, four assists, one block and four steals across 25 minutes during Thursday's 115-107 victory over the Nuggets.

Ball missed six games after being placed in the COVID-19 protocols, but he's looked great since returning to action. He's scored at least 16 points in three of those four appearances while also filling the stat sheet on a regular basis. In four four-game stretch, the second-year floor general is averaging 18.3 points, 6.8 assists and 6.3 rebounds per contest.

Ball registered 21 points (8-20 FG, 3-7 3Pt, 2-2 FT), six rebounds, 11 assists and one block across 33 minutes before fouling out of Monday's 112-102 loss to the Jazz.

Ball has played well since returning from an extended COVID-19-related absence. After falling just short of a double-double with 10 rebounds against Phoenix, he went the other way and notched his third assist double-double of the season in Monday's loss.

Ball posted 27 points (11-17 FG, 3-5 3Pt, 2-2 FT), four rebounds, five assists and one steal across 29 minutes during Friday's 125-116 loss to Portland.

While the Hornets fell behind early and the game was out of control early in the second half, it was an encouraging return for Ball, who was back in the lineup for the first time since Dec. 1 due to COVID-19 protocols. The second-year guard needed only 29 minutes to rack up 27 points and three three-pointers. Through 25 appearances this season, Ball now has now hit multiple threes 18 times. Heading into Sunday's game at Phoenix, Ball is averaging 20.3 points, 7.6 rebounds, 8.1 assists, 1.9 steals and 2.9 threes in 33.1 minutes.

Ball (COVID-19 protocols) is available for Friday's game against the Trail Blazers.

Ball trended in the right direction ahead of Friday's matchup and will be able to return to the court following a six-game absence. It's not yet clear whether his minutes will be restricted against Portland.

Ball (COVID-19 protocols) was upgraded to probable from questionable for Friday's game against Portland.

Ball was originally questionable for Friday's contest but was upgraded after going through the team shootaround. The 20-year-old is poised to retake the court versus the Trail Blazers after being sidelined the past six games.

Ball (COVID-19 protocols) is questionable for Friday's matchup against the Trail Blazers, Rod Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Ball has missed the past six games but could return Thursday, assuming his conditioning is up to par. He's been one of the best fantasy players this season and is returning first-round value on a per-game basis in almost every format. The second-year point guard is averaging 20.0 points, 8.3 assists, 7.7 rebounds and 1.9 steals in 33.3 minutes

Ball (conditioning) was assigned to the Greensboro Swarm on Wednesday.

Ball cleared COVID protocols Tuesday, but after practicing with the Swarm, he was ruled out for Wednesday's contest against the Spurs. The franchise centerpiece will likely get another full practice in with the G League squad Wednesday as he ramps up for a potential return to NBA action Friday at Portland.

Ball (conditioning) will not be available for Wednesday's game against the Spurs.

While Ball has passed through the league's health and safety protocols, he'll miss at least one more game as he works back up to full speed following an extended, COVID-related absence. Ball was able to practice with the G League Greensboro Swarm on Tuesday, so the Hornets are likely just exercising caution with their franchise centerpiece. Barring some sort of setback, Ball will likely make his return to action Friday at Portland.

Ball cleared COVID-19 protocols Tuesday and was sent to the G League's Greensboro Swarm for a rehab assignment.

Ball has been out since Dec. 1, missing five games. He'll practice with the Swarm on Tuesday to build his conditioning back up and seemingly has a shot to play Wednesday against the Spurs.

Ball (COVID-19 health and safety protocols) is listed as out for Monday's game against the Mavericks.

Among the four Charlotte players who entered the NBA's COVID-19 health and safety protocols earlier this month, only Mason Plumlee and Jalen McDaniels have completed their quarantines and are eligible to play once they regain conditioning. According to Rod Boone of The Charlotte Observer, Ball and Ish Smith could also clear protocols in the next 24 hours, but at the very least, all four players will remain out for Monday's game in Dallas, which marks the start of a six-game road trip for Charlotte. Ball will theoretically have a shot at rejoining the Hornets for Wednesday's game in San Antonio, but unless he's cleared to resume practicing Tuesday, his absence will most likely extend into the weekend. Monday's contest will mark the fifth consecutive missed game for Ball.

Ball was placed in the league's health and safety protocols Saturday.

Ball was one of several Hornets who landed in the health and safety protocols Saturday, and he's expected to miss several games, Shams Charania of The Athletic reports. Ish Smith should see an uptick in playing time in the backcourt with both Ball and Terry Rozier (COVID-19 protocols) unavailable.

Ball supplied 36 points (12-22 FG, 8-15 3Pt, 4-4 FT), five rebounds, nine assists, one block and three steals in 41 minutes during Wednesday's 127-125 loss to the Bucks.

Ball was in top form against the reigning NBA champions, establishing career highs with 36 points and eight-three pointers. His triple with 5.9 seconds remaining in regulation tied the game, but Giannis Antetokounmpo subsequently hit a layup to send Milwaukee to the win. Ball did have a three-game streak of double-digit assists snapped, but fantasy managers who roster him will gladly take his nine dimes, especially given the point guard's robust scoring output.

Ball registered 18 points (5-15 FG, 3-8 3Pt, 5-6 FT), seven rebounds, 13 assists, one block and one steal over 32 minutes during Monday's 133-119 loss to the Bulls.

Ball ended just three rebounds away from posting what would've been his second straight triple-double, and he has been thriving as a passer of late with three straight contests with 13 assists. The second-year guard already has six double-doubles and two triple-doubles, and he's showing signs of being an even better player compared to his rookie year -- both in fantasy and in real life. Through 23 games, he's averaging 19.3 points, 8.2 assists and 7.8 rebounds -- all figures that would be career-high numbers if he's able to sustain them throughout the entire campaign.

Ball ended with 19 points (7-19 FG, 2-6 3Pt, 3-3 FT), 11 rebounds, 13 assists and one steal in 40 minutes during Saturday's 146-143 OT loss to Houston.

Ball struggled with his shot in the loss but made up for it with his usual across-the-board production. This was Ball's third triple-double of the season, a campaign in which he is already exceeding early expectations. The Hornets are going to be battling for a playoff spot all season long, meaning Ball is going to be very busy moving forward. Congratulations if you nabbed him in your fantasy draft.

Ball recorded 28 points (10-24 FG, 3-9 3Pt, 5-7 FT), 13 rebounds, seven assists, three steals and one block during Monday's 109-103 win over Washington.

For a third straight matchup, Ball registered double digits in rebounding to accomplish yet another double-double performance. The second-year guard has surely solidified himself as one, if not the best, rebounding point guards in the league, as he currently has five 10-plus rebounding outings this season. Ball's 28 points Monday also marked his fourth time reaching the 28-point plateau, and his seven assists were good enough for first on the Hornets.

Ball logged 15 points (5-18 FG, 3-7 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 11 assists, 10 rebounds, two steals and one block across 34 minutes during a 115-105 loss Saturday at Atlanta.

Despite logging a 36.0 field goal percentage across the Hornets' last three away games, Ball compensated for it by utilizing other statistical categories to supply value. He averaged 11.7 rebounds and 10.0 assists during that span. To fantasy managers who wanted Ball consistently averaging double figures across multiple categories, their wish may be happening.

Ball finished Wednesday's win over the Wizards with 11 points (4-18 FG, 2-7 3Pt, 1-1 FT), six rebounds, 14 assists and two steals over 36 minutes.

Despite a poor shooting night, Ball was able to set a career-high in assists with 14 dimes. This was the rookie's fourth straight double-double with one of those being a triple double. Ball has also been scoring very consistently as he has now scored in double-figures in 10 straight contests.

Ball posted 12 points (4-13 FG, 0-5 3Pt, 4-5 FT), 17 rebounds, nine assists, one block and five steals over 37 minutes during Friday's 104-96 win over the Knicks.

Ball wasn't particularly efficient from the floor in Friday's victory, but he still mustered 12 points while hauling in a career-high 17 boards. The 20-year-old has now posted double-doubles in three of his last five appearances, and he's topped 20 points in three of those contests.

Ball recorded 12 points (5-13 FG, 2-7 3Pt, 0-1 FT), nine rebounds, eight assists and two steals across 32 minutes during Wednesday's 118-108 victory over the Grizzlies.

Ball was coming off a triple-double against the Lakers the last time out, and he ended just one rebound and two assists away from recording that feat in back-to-back contests for the first time in his career. While the 12 points represent Ball's third-worst scoring output of the campaign, he's been playing at a very high level this year and is doing far more than just scoring. Through 13 games, he's averaging 19.8 points, 7.1 assists, 6.8 rebounds and 1.8 steals per game.

Ball finished Monday's loss to the Lakers with 25 points (8-19 FG, 3-8 3Pt, 6-6 FT), 15 rebounds, 11 assists, one steal and one blocked shot over 42 minutes.

The second-year point guard put together a monster stat line, though his effort wasn't quite enough to carry Charlotte to a win. Ball's 15 boards were a career high, and his 11 assists marked the second time this season he has finished with double-digit dimes. Ball has built upon last season's Rookie of the Year campaign with an even better all-around performance that includes 20.4 points, 7.0 assists, 6.6 rebounds and 1.8 steals per game.

Ball finished Sunday's loss to the Clippers with 21 points (8-19 FG, 2-5 3Pt, 3-3 FT), seven rebounds, three assists and three steals.

While the Hornets fell to their fourth straight loss, Ball had another strong showing, providing valuable steals and hitting multiple threes for the sixth time in 11 games. While Ball has been prone to some inefficient shooting nights, he's looked like a better and even more confident offensive player in his second NBA season. Entering a four-game Week 4, Ball is averaging 20.0 points and 3.0 threes per game.

Ball recorded 24 points (9-14 FG, 4-8 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 13 assists and three rebounds across 31 minutes during a 140-110 loss Friday at Sacramento.

A previously bruised hip did not prevent Ball from playing or recording his first double-double this season. He is averaging 19.9 points and 7.0 assists per game. Though his fantasy managers will not receive double-doubles from him regularly, they should be satisfied that Ball's mentioned averages are some of the best among league point guards.

Ball (hip) will play in Friday's matchup with the Kings.

No surprise here, as Ball was considered probable headed into the evening. Barring any setbacks, look for him to take on his usual workload as the team's starting point guard.

Ball is probable for Friday's matchup against the Kings due to a right hip contusion.

Ball suffered the injury in Wednesday's loss to Golden State, but he should be good to go Friday. He's seen at least 30 minutes in each of the past four games and is averaging 19.3 points, 6.8 assists, 6.5 rebounds and 1.8 steals during this stretch.

Ball tallied 14 points (5-14 FG, 0-6 3Pt, 4-4 FT), eight assists, five rebounds and four steals over 34 minutes in a loss to Golden State on Wednesday.

Ball had trouble putting the ball through the net against the Warriors, missing all six of his three-point tries and going 5-for-14 from the field overall. Still, the second-year standout managed to contribute in other ways, tallying four steals and producing solid numbers as a distributor and rebounder. Ball will be much better with his shot most days, but it's certainly promising that he has consistently shown an ability to contribute even when his stroke isn't at its best.

Ball tallied 30 points (12-22 FG, 5-8 3PT, 1-1 FT), seven rebounds, six assists, two steals and two blocks in 34 minutes Monday against the Cavaliers.

Ball led the Hornets in scoring and dropped 30 points for the second time this season, but it wasn't enough to secure the victory. He's been consistently contributing across the board to begin the 2021 campaign, averaging 20.1 points, 6.1 rebounds, 6.1 assists and 1.6 steals through eight contests.

Ball finished Sunday's win over the Blazers with 27 points (10-20 FG, 4-9 3Pt, 3-4 FT), nine rebounds, seven assists and one steal.

Coming off of a pair of down games against Orlando and Miami, Ball bounced back in a major way with his best performance since going for 31 points, nine boards and seven assists on Opening Night. Ball's shooting may come and go, and his low free throw rate is a bit of a concern, but on the whole Ball looks like he's ready for a major breakout in his second NBA season.

Ball had his 2022-23 option picked up by Charlotte on Friday.

The reigning Rookie of the Year has gotten off to a tremendous start to his second season. Ball is averaging 19.6 points, 5.9 rebounds and 6.0 assists in 28.2 minutes per game thus far while also shooting at a 45.9 percent clip from deep. This move by the Hornets ensures that their young star will be with the team next year. This was a no-brainer for Charlotte.

Ball finished with 25 points (7-19 FG, 7-14 3PT, 4-4 FT), nine assists and five rebounds in 33 minutes Monday against Boston.

Ball found his groove from beyond the arc, as all seven of his successful field goals were attempted from three. He's been impressive to start the 2021 campaign, putting up 17 or more points in all four contests while making contributions with both assists and rebounds for fantasy owners. It was also encouraging to see the point guard log over 30 minutes for the first time this year in the loss to the Celtics.

Ball registered 18 points (8-18 FG, 1-6 3Pt, 1-1 FT), five assists, five rebounds and a blocked shot across 26 minutes in Sunday's 111-95 win over the Nets.

Ball sat out in the fourth quarter, allowing Ish Smith to go on a tear in his place. It appeared that Ball sat voluntarily and let Smith ride his hot hand in the final stanza. While the 26 minutes of court time will probably disappoint those who depend on Ball in their fantasy backcourts, Ball's gesture was an encouraging sign of maturity and leadership, which is only good news for a Hornets team that is off to its best start in years.

Ball boomed for 31 points (11-23 FG, 7-9 3Pt, 2-2 FT), nine rebounds, seven assists and two steals in a 123-122 victory over the Pacers on Wednesday.

Down 16 at halftime, Ball keyed a 29-4 run to end the third quarter. Ball also supplied this production in only 29 minutes of action. Ball was playing without his backcourt mate Terry Rozier (ankle), which likely did favors for his usage, but similar stat lines aren't unrealistic moving forward. The Hornets will play Cleveland on Friday.

Ball had 19 points (7-14 FG, 2-8 3Pt, 3-3 FT), nine assists, eight rebounds and one steal in Monday's preseason loss to Miami.

After a rough shooting night against Memphis in the last preseason game, Ball bounced back with a near-triple-double in just 26 minutes of action. He's just 4-of-17 from three thus far in exhibition play, but Ball has been a counting-stat machine and remains a high-upside fantasy asset heading into his second NBA season.

Ball finished Monday's preseason win over the Thunder with 15 points (7-13 FG, 1-4 3Pt), six rebounds, five assists and two steals.

The Hornets' starters sat most of the second half, but Ball was able to put up a full line in just 21 minutes of action. He'll likely continue to have his workload monitored throughout the Hornets' four-game exhibition slate, which continues Thursday against the Grizzlies.

Ball has been named the NBA's 2020-21 Rookie of the Year, Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reports.

Ball had an electric rookie season, and he helped the Hornets secure a spot in the play-in tournament. After becoming a fullt-ime starter in February, he averaged 18.1 points, 6.2 assists, 5.9 rebounds and 1.7 steals in 31.2 minutes. He had two 30-point games and six games with double-digit assists, plus one triple-double.

Ball had 14 points (4-14 FG, 2-6 3Pt, 4-6 FT), four assists and a rebound across 27 minutes in Tuesday's loss against the Pacers.

Ball didn't have his best performance and had a rough night from the floor, though that had been an issue with him in recent weeks -- he only surpassed the 15-point mark in two of his last five contests. The rookie had an excellent season, though, averaging 15.7 points, 6.1 assists and 5.9 rebounds per game, and it wouldn't be shocking if he ends up winning the Rookie Of The Year award.

Ball produced 19 points (7-21 FG, 2-8 3Pt, 3-4 FT), seven rebounds, five assists and two steals in 33 minutes during Sunday's 115-110 loss to the Wizards.

Ball struggled to find his rhythm on the offensive end as the Hornets gave up an early lead, eventually succumbing to Russell Westbrook and the Wizards. Ball will now lead his team into the play-in tournament where they will face the Pacers in a do-or-die contest. Despite missing a chunk of time to end the season, Ball's rookie campaign has to be viewed as a success and the future looks bright in Charlotte, no matter the final outcome.

Ball totaled 18 points (5-10 FG, 3-4 3Pt, 5-6 FT), seven assists, six rebounds and two steals in a 113-90 loss to the Clippers on Thursday.

Ball was able to bounce back from Tuesday's rough shooting performance and compile a strong stat line. The guard has recorded five-plus assists and four-plus rebounds in each of his last eight games since returning from a wrist injury. Over that stretch, Ball has averaged 15.5 points, 6.6 assists, 6.5 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game.

Ball accumulated five points (1-9 FG, 0-3 3Pt, 3-4 FT), 12 rebounds and seven assists in 31 minutes during Tuesday's 117-112 loss to the Nuggets.

The 19-year-old couldn't get anything going from the field but winded up salvaging his night with his sixth double-digit rebounding performance of the season. Before Tuesday's game, Ball was averaging 24.5 points, 5.5 assists, 5.0 rebounds and 2.0 steals while shooting 51.2 percent from the field over his last two games. He'll look to bounce back Thursday at home against the Clippers.

Ball had 22 points (10-19 FG, 2-5 3Pt, 0-3 FT), five assists, four rebounds and two steals in Sunday's loss to the Pelicans.

Ball was coming off of a 27-point, six-rebound, six-assist effort against Orlando on Friday, but he finished that game 0-of-7 from three. While he bounced back and drilled a pair of threes Sunday, Ball was uncharacteristically poor at the line, missing all three of his attempts and finishing without a make for the first time since March 11. All in all, it was another strong effort for the 20-year-old, who will have four more games to bolster his case for the Rookie of the Year award.

Ball scored 27 points (11-22 FG, 0-7 3Pt, 5-8 FT) while adding six rebounds, six assists and two steals in 34 minutes during Friday's win over the Magic.

Any success at all from beyond the arc would have given Ball his first 30-point performance since March 1, but it was still a very productive night for the rookie. His numbers have been erratic in the five games since he returned to the lineup from a wrist injury, but Ball is still averaging 15.8 points, 6.8 assists, 6.0 boards and 1.8 steals over that stretch.

Ball collected four points (1-10 FG, 0-2 3Pt, 2-4 FT), nine assists and four rebounds in a 120-99 loss to the Bulls on Thursday.

Ball had a very rough game shooting in his fourth game back from an extended absence (21 games) due to a wrist injury. Despite the lack of scoring, the guard was an effective distributor, as he put up a 9:1 assist-to-turnover ratio. Ball has averaged 13.0 points, 7.0 assists, 6.0 rebounds and 1.8 steals across his last four games.

Ball scored 23 points (7-16 FG, 3-5 3Pt, 6-6 FT) to go along with seven rebounds, six assists and two steals across 31 minutes in Tuesday's win over the Pistons.

Ball had his best performance in three games since returning from a wrist injury. It was the first time in that span that he converted multiple threes as well as the first time he managed to top 20 points. Aside from scoring, Ball has chipped in well across the box score since retaking the floor, averaging 6.7 rebounds, 6.3 assists, 2.3 steals and 1.0 blocks.

Ball finished Saturday's win over Detroit with 11 points (4-10 FG, 1-4 3Pt, 2-4 FT), eight assists, seven rebounds, two blocks and a steal.

The rookie didn't show much rust in his first game since March 20, though he did commit five turnovers in 28 minutes of action. While Ball replaced the injured Devonte' Graham (knee) in the starting five, the Hornets could eventually opt to start all three of Ball, Graham and Terry Rozier together down the stretch. Keep an eye on Ball's status ahead of Sunday's game against the Heat, but the Hornets have given no indication that he'll be rested on the second half of the back-to-back set.

Ball (wrist) is available for Saturday's game against Detroit.

Ball cleared his pregame tests and will be able to return after his 21-game absence due to a broken right wrist. Ball will have a minutes restriction in his first game back, but he'll start in place of Devonte' Graham, Sam Perley of the Hornets' official site reports. Brad Wanamaker, Caleb Martin, Cody Martin and Graham could see decreased workloads.

Ball (wrist) will test his wrist pregame prior to determining whether he can play Saturday against the Pistons, Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reports.

Per Shams Charania of The Athletic, Ball is expected to return to action for Saturday's matchup against Detroit. However, he's still considered a game-time call since he'll test his injury prior to the contest before he's officially cleared to play. If Ball ultimately returns, he'll likely see a minutes restriction in his first game back on the court.

Ball (wrist) is expected to play Saturday against Detroit, Shams Charania of The Athletic reports.

Ball was questionable for Saturday's matchup after he missed 21 straight games due to a broken right wrist, but it appears as though he'll be back in action against the Pistons. The 19-year-old should have a minutes restriction during his first game back on the court, but his return could mean fewer minutes for Brad Wanamaker, Caleb Martin, Cody Martin and Devonte' Graham.

Ball (wrist) is questionable for Saturday's contest against the Pistons.

After a 21-game absence due to a broken right wrist, Ball could make his return Saturday. The Rookie of the Year candidate may come off the bench and have a limited workload in his first game back, whether that comes Saturday or later. His return will also likely mean fewer minutes for Brad Wanamaker, the Martin twins and Devonte' Graham.

Coach James Borrego said Tuesday that Ball (wrist) could participate in a live practice Thursday, Rod Boone of The Hive Vibes reports.

It was reported early last week the 19-year-old was 7-to-10 days away from returning to game action, but it appears it will be at least a couple additional days before the rookie is cleared. However, a strong showing at Thursday's practice could be one of the final hurdles before Ball is deemed ready for games, so there's a chance he's able to play in the back-to-back set Saturday and Sunday versus Detroit and Miami, respectively.

Ball (wrist) is listed as out for Tuesday's game against the Bucks.

This isn't a major surprise, though a week ago Tim Bontemps of ESPN reported that Ball could return to action within the next seven-to-10 days. Tuesday will mark eight days since that report, so the dynamic rookie figures to be back on the floor at some point within the next few games. The Hornets play Wednesday (at Boston) before a two-day break ahead of Saturday's home matchup versus Detroit.

The Hornets said Monday that Ball's wrist has healed and he's been cleared to return to individual basketball activity, Tim Bontemps of ESPN.com reports.

Ball underwent surgery on his fractured right wrist on March 23, and Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reports that Ball could be back in the next 7-10 days. The team will provide updates as he progresses in his individual workouts. If he does make an eventual return, Ball's workload would likely be slowly ramped up considering the nature of the injury.

Ball underwent surgery on his fractured right wrist on Tuesday and will be re-evaluated in four weeks, Shams Charania of The Athletic reports.

It was reported Sunday that Ball was likely done for the season due to his wrist injury, but it appears that he still at least has a chance to return, however unlikely it may be. The team will re-evaluate him in late April, and if Charlotte remains in the playoff hunt, it's plausible that he could have a chance to return for the playoffs. For the next month while Ball is sidelined, Devonte' Graham will be the primary beneficiary.

Ball suffered a fractured bone in his right wrist and is expected to miss the remainder of the season, Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reports.

The rookie sensation departed Saturday's game against the Clippers with a right wrist issue, but it wasn't initially believed to be anything serious, and he was listed as probable for Monday's game at San Antonio. However, further examination revealed the fractured bone, which will likely put an end to one of the better rookie seasons we've seen in recent years. Ball will seek a second opinion, per Wojnarowski, but the expectation is that he'll face a multi-month recovery process. In 41 games, the No. 3 overall pick averaged 15.9 points, 6.1 assists, 5.9 rebounds and 1.6 steals, while holding an impressive 45.1-37.5-78.9 shooting line.

Ball (wrist) is probable for Monday's game against the Spurs.

Ball is dealing with right wrist soreness after leaving Saturday's game against the Clippers, but he should be able to suit up against San Antonio. Ball has averaged 18.4 points, 4.8 rebounds and 4.2 assists over 26.6 minutes per contest across the last five games.

Ball exited during the fourth quarter of Saturday's loss to the Clippers with an apparent right wrist injury, Law Murray of The Athletic reports.

The 19-year-old appeared to suffer the injury early on during the contest, and he was seen favoring his wrist throughout the game before eventually heading to the locker room during the fourth quarter. Ball had 13 points (4-12 FG, 1-4 3Pt, 4-7 FT), five rebounds, three steals and two assists in 22 minutes before leaving the court. The specifics of the injury remain unclear, and he should be considered questionable for Monday's game at San Antonio until his status is updated.

Ball logged 26 points (10-18 FG, 2-5 3Pt, 4-5 FT), seven assists, five rebounds and one steal in Thursday's 116-105 loss to the Lakers.

Ball was rather quiet at Denver on Wednesday but bounced back with a 26-point stat line Thursday. However, Ball's effort was not perfect. He logged a career high of six turnovers despite his seemingly flawless line. Fortunately for Ball's fantasy owners, he is averaging only 2.9 turnovers and should remain a highly valuable option when on the court.

Ball collected 14 points (5-11 FG, 1-5 3Pt, 3-4 FT), two assists, one rebound and one steal in a 129-104 loss to the Nuggets on Wednesday.

With the game being a blowout through three quarters, Ball played only 22 minutes but was able to score in double figures for the third consecutive game. The guard has been fantastic since entering the starting lineup on Feb. 1, averaging 19.5 points, 6.4 assists, 5.9 rebounds and 1.7 steals per game. Ball is certainly in the conversation to be this season's Rookie of the Year and should continue to be a strong all-around contributor for fantasy managers.

Ball scored 16 points (7-15 FG, 0-3 3Pt, 2-3 FT) while adding four rebounds, four assists and one steal in 25 minutes of action during Monday's win over the Kings.

For the first time as a starter, Ball failed to hit from distance despite the solid shooting effort. To that point, Ball has hit greater than 45 percent of his shots in four of five March and better than 60 percent of his triples in three games over that span. He did fail to dish out five assists for the first time since Feb. 22.

Ball notched 23 points (7-11 FG, 6-9 3Pt, 3-3 FT), nine rebounds, six assists, a steal and a block across 31 minutes in Saturday's win over the Raptors.

Ball was coming off a seven-point performance against the Pistons on Mar. 11, but he bounced back admirably here -- he ended just one rebound shy of putting up what would've been his second double-double over his last five appearances. His passing displays have been excellent as well, and Ball is averaging 20.6 points, 8.0 assists, 6.2 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game during his last five contests.

Ball totaled seven points (3-11 FG, 1-5 3Pt), nine assists, five rebounds and one steal in 29 minutes during Thursday's 105-102 win against the Pistons.

The 19-year-old struggled from the field in his first game back from the All-Star break, but he made up for it in the passing department. Ball continued to start despite the return of Devonte' Graham (knee), and that trend should continue for the foreseeable future. Before tonight's game, he was averaging 20.7 points, 6.7 assists, 6.2 rebounds, 2.9 three-pointers, and 1.9 steals over his last 15 games as the starter. Ball will look to bounce back Saturday against the Raptors.

Ball will continue to start even when Devonte' Graham (kneecap) returns, Sam Perley of the Hornets' official site reports.

Ball has been starting since the start of February as the Hornets dealt with injuries, most notably missing Graham for 10 of the last 12 games. Thriving as a starter over the past 15 games, Ball has averaged 20.7 points, 6.7 assists, 6.2 rebounds and 1.9 steals in 33.9 minutes. It's possible his workload and usage will take a slight dip once Graham returns, but Ball ultimately seems locked in as the current and future leader of the team on the court.

Ball totaled 30 points (10-18 FG, 5-7 3Pt, 5-6 FT), eight assists, six rebounds and four steals across 32 minutes in Monday's loss to Portland.

Ball's big effort wasn't enough to help Charlotte capture a win, but the rookie nonetheless made his mark with one of the best performances of his young career. He notched his second-best scoring effort of the season and converted five three-pointers for only the second time while contributing solid numbers as a rebounder and passer. Ball also tied a career high with four steals and added a blocked shot for good measure. The third overall pick in last year's draft is making a push for the Rookie of the Year award with per-game averages of 15.7 points, 6.0 rebounds, 6.4 assists and 1.6 steals.

Ball totaled 24 points (7-12 FG, 1-2 3Pt, 9-10 FT), 12 assists and four rebounds in a 127-126 win Sunday versus Sacramento.

Ball registered his fourth straight game of 20-plus points in the win, but it was his passing that was most impressive as the rookie finished with a career-high 12 assists. Since moving into the starting lineup Feb. 1, Ball has averaged 19.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, 6.3 assists and 1.8 steals. His seven double-doubles are more than twice the amount of any other NBA rookie this season.

Ball tallied 22 points (7-16 FG, 3-8 3Pt, 5-8 FT), seven rebounds, six assists and a steal in Friday's loss to the Warriors.

Ball has now scored 20-plus points in three consecutive games, his longest such streak this season. The rookie has also drained at least one three-pointer in 13 straight games and has emerged as a strong source of both boards and dimes. Ball experienced his share of rookie bumps and bruises early in the campaign, but he has come around to become a steady performer for both the Hornets and fantasy managers. He has pushed his season per-game averages to 15.0 points, 6.1 rebounds, 6.1 assists and 1.6 steals.

Ball had 20 points (7-11 FG, 3-7 3Pt, 3-3 FT), eight assists, four rebounds and two steals across 30 minutes in Wednesday's win over the Suns.

Ball ended just two dimes away from recording what would've been his third double-double over his last five appearances, but he reached the 20-point mark for the third time in that same span as well. He's looking better and better with each passing game and is firmly entrenched as the Hornets' starting point guard, averaging 19.5 points, 6.3 assists and 6.3 rebounds per game since moving to the starting five on a regular basis.

Ball registered 21 points (8-20 FG, 2-7 3Pt, 3-3 FT), seven rebounds, four assists and three steals across 38 minutes in Monday's loss against the Jazz.

Ball tied Gordon Hayward (hand) for the team's highest-scoring tally in this loss, and he has looked excellent since moving to the starting lineup. In 10 starts, Ball has scored at least 20 points five times while recording three double-doubles, two with 10-plus rebounds and one with 10-plus assists. He is averaging 19.5 points, 6.5 boards and 6.1 dimes per game in that span.

Ball and the Hornets will not play Wednesday against the Bulls or Friday against the Nuggets after the games were postponed, Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reports.

Due to four positive COVID-19 tests within the Spurs, who faced off against Charlotte on Sunday, the Hornets will conduct contact tracing while the next two games are postponed. The hope is that they'll be able to resume play Saturday night against Golden State.

Ball logged 17 points (7-20 FG, 3-8 3Pt), 12 rebounds, eight assists, three steals and one block across 39 minutes Sunday in a 122-110 loss to the Spurs.

The Hornets were already without Gordon Hayward (back) on Sunday but suffered another setback when Devonte' Graham exited due to a knee injury. They answered by having the rookie play a career high of 39 minutes en route to his sixth double-double. If Hayward and Graham have to sit out games, Ball could see an uptick in value serving as their primary playmaker and secondary scorer (behind Terry Rozier).

Ball went for 20 points (8-15 FG, 2-8 3Pt, 2-2 FT), 11 rebounds, four assists and three steals over 37 minutes in the Hornets' 120-114 victory over the Timberwolves on Friday.

The Hornets went guard heavy in Friday's game, starting both Devonte' Graham and Terry Rozier along with Ball and the trio combined for 69 of the team's 120 points. In the process, Ball managed to top the 20-point plateau for the fourth time this month. In seven games since taking over as a starter, Ball is averaging 21.4 points, 6.1 rebounds, 6.0 assists and 1.6 steals per game.

Ball posted 17 points (8-15 FG, 1-4 3Pt), five assists, three steals, two rebounds and a block across 28 minutes in Wednesday's loss against the Grizzlies.

Ball continues to separate himself from the rest of the first-year players with another impressive performance, though he seems to have elevated his game since being promoted to the starting role. Ball is averaging 21.7 points, 5.4 rebounds and 6.4 assists per game in his last six games, all of them as a starter. He has dished out five or more assists in five of those contests.

Ball totaled 24 points (7-18 FG, 7-12 3Pt, 3-4 FT), 10 assists and seven rebounds over 32 minutes Monday during the Hornets' 119-94 win over the Rockets.

Ball was feeling it from beyond the arc during Monday's victory, draining a career-high seven treys, though he did miss all six of his shots from inside the arc. Still, Ball has been highly productive this season whether coming off the bench or in the starting lineup. In the two games with Devonte' Graham (groin) out, he is averaging 21.5 points, 7.5 assists and 7.0 rebounds per game.

Ball scored 34 points (14-27 FG, 4-9 3PT, 2-3 FT) to go along with four rebounds, eight assists, two steals and one block across 36 minutes in Friday's loss to the Jazz.

Ball topped 35 minutes for the second consecutive game, the only two times he's done so in his rookie season. That helped him post a career-best 34 points, as did the absence of Devonte' Graham -- who was forced out of the game in the second quarter with a groin injury. Though Ball had already seemingly secured a role in the starting lineup, if Graham's absence extends beyond just this game, Ball should see an increased role as both a ball-handler and scorer.

Ball will return to a reserve role in Friday's game against the Jazz, Rod Boone of The Hive Vibes reports.

With Terry Rozier (ankle) back in the lineup, Ball will slide back to his usual role off the bench. He averaged 18.0 points, 6.0 rebounds and 5.0 assists across 34.9 minutes in his two spot-starts, but will now likely see something closer to his 25.0 minutes that he has averaged as a reserve this season.

Ball dropped 22 points (8-16 FG, 3-6 3Pt, 3-3 FT), seven rebounds, three assists and two steals across 38 minutes in Wednesday's loss to the Sixers.

Starting in his second game, Ball's scoring, field goals made, three-pointers made and rebounding all improved. His play recently has improved, averaging 19.7 points, 6.5 assists, 4.6 rebounds and 1.7 steals across 32.5 minutes per game in his last four games (two starts).

Ball scored 14 points (3-11 FG, 2-4 3Pt, 6-6 FT) while adding seven assists and five rebounds in 31 minutes during Monday's 129-121 overtime win over the Heat.

Getting his first NBA start with Terry Rozier (ankle) sidelined, Ball didn't put up the kind of numbers backcourt-mates Malik Monk and Devonte' Graham did in the win, but the rookie still handled the extra responsibility well, scoring in double digits for the third straight game and the 14th time in his first 21 contests. Rozier's injury isn't thought to be serious, but Ball could still be running with the first unit for Wednesday's clash with the 76ers.

Ball will make his first career start Monday against the Heat, Hornets reporter Rod Boone reports.

With Terry Rozier (ankle) ruled out, Ball will move into the lineup for the first time after coming off the bench for the Hornets' first 20 games. The No. 3 overall pick is coming off of a career-best 27 points in 31 minutes against Milwaukee on Saturday. In that game, he also tacked on nine assists, five rebounds and four steals, while going a perfect 9-for-9 at the free throw line.

Ball had 27 points (8-10 FG, 2-3 3PT, 9-9 FT), nine assists, five rebounds and four steals in Saturday's win over Milwaukee.

The rookie's 27 points set a new career-high, as did his nine makes (and attempts) at the free throw line. It was arguably the best performance of of the season for Ball, who tied his career-high with 31 minutes played off the bench. Over the last two games alone, Ball has racked up 43 points, 11 rebounds, 16 assists and six steals.

Ball added 16 points (7-13 FG, 0-6 3Pt, 2-3 FT), seven assists, six rebounds and two steals across 30 minutes off the bench in the Hornets' 108-105 win over the Pacers on Friday.

While Ball's 16 points were the most he's scored in a game since January 9, he's put up a goose egg from beyond the arc in five of his last eight games. Since shooting 66.7 percent from deep in December, Ball has shot 23.1 from distance in the month of January.

Ball went for 11 points (4-11 FG, 2-4 3Pt, 1-1 FT), eight assists, five rebounds and one steal in 28 minutes off the bench in the Hornets' 107-104 win over the Magic on Sunday.

Since recording a 22-point triple-double back on January 9, Ball has struggled, only averaging 9.1 points, 6.3 rebounds 4.6 assists per game while only making 34.4 percent of his shots. Despite coming off the bench, the No. 3 pick has now seen 11 of his games go for more than 10 points while adding at least five rebounds and five assists in the same game in 11 games as well.

Ball and the Hornets will not play Wednesday against the Wizards after the game was postponed, Shams Charania of The Athletic reports.

This will be the first postponement for the Hornets, though it appears to be due to COVID-19 issues within the Wizards organization. A three-game Week 5 is now a two-game week for Charlotte, which will now be idle until Friday's game against Chicago.

Ball recorded 14 points (6-14 FG, 2-5 3PT), six rebounds, 11 assists, three steals and one block in 26 minutes during the 111-108 loss to Toronto on Thursday.

Ball continued his shooting woes in the loss Thursday. The guard has struggled lately to find his shooting rhythm, but luckily has made up in other departments. It was only two matches prior, that he set a season-high in rebounds and tonight he tied his season-high in assists. Ball has shown throughout his rookie season, that he has the tools and abilities to make an impact in all areas of the court. However, it is key for him to start producing like that consistently and to put all of those key skills together. Nevertheless, he is a star and is making his way to becoming the key man for the Hornets.

Ball posted eight points (3-13 FG, 2-6 3Pt), 14 rebounds, seven assists, three steals and a blocked shot across 30 minutes in Monday's 109-88 win over the Knicks.

Ball's shot was ice-cold, but he made up for it with a brilliant night in ancillary categories. It's an added dimension to the rookie, who has already demonstrated his explosive scoring potential multiple times this season. His historic triple-double two nights ago is the highlight so far, but he's putting up respectable numbers on a nightly basis.

Ball scored 22 points (9-13 FG, 3-5 3Pt, 1-2 FT) while adding 12 rebounds, 11 assists and a steal across 31 minutes off the bench in Saturday's win over Atlanta.

Ball ended just one assist shy of recording a triple-double Friday against the Pelicans, but he reached the feat Saturday and became the youngest player in NBA history to achieve that statistical output. Ball has been playing at a high level of late, averaging 16.0 points, 7.4 rebounds and 7.1 assists per game over his last seven appearances off the bench.

Ball scored 12 points (4-11 FG, 1-5 3Pt, 3-4 FT) while adding 10 rebounds, nine assists and a steal in 26 minutes off the bench during Friday's 118-110 win over the Pelicans.

In the first ever NBA battle between the Ball brothers, it was younger sibling LaMelo who came out on top both statistically and on the scoreboard. In fact, the 19-year-old rookie came within one assist of becoming the youngest player to record a triple-double in league history. Ball is already becoming a force on the second unit for the Hornets, averaging 15.0 points, 6.7 assists, 6.5 boards, 1.7 steals and 1.7 threes over the last six games.

Ball totaled 16 points (6-12 FG, 2-5 3Pt, 2-2 FT), eight rebounds and five assists in 24 minutes of Wednesday's 102-94 win over Atlanta.

Ball finished second on the team in scoring on the evening. He also registered his second-best point total of the year while tying his season-high in boards. The 19-year-old did all this despite seeing fewer minutes than he had over his previous four games.

Ball tallied 12 points (5-16 FG, 0-5 3Pt, 2-3 FT), nine assists, seven rebounds and two steals over 30 minutes off the bench in Monday's 118-101 loss to the 76ers.

The nine assists were a career-high for Ball in an otherwise poor outing. His shooting percentage has decreased in now in four consecutive games as has his points scored. Though his production has decreased, Ball is averaging 29 minutes off the bench over his last four outings as he adapts to life in the NBA.

Ball had 13 points (4-12 FG, 1-4 3Pt, 4-6 FT), five assists, four rebounds, four steals and two blocks in Saturday's 127-112 loss against the Sixers.

Ball has recorded a steal in each of his six professional games and is averaging 1.8 SPG across that span. Ball's defense has balanced his serviceable but improvable offensive stats, which feature averages of 11.5 points and 4.2 assists.

Ball notched 15 points (6-14 FG, 2-7 3Pt, 1-2 FT), three rebounds, six assists and two steals across 27 minutes off the bench in Friday's loss against the Grizzlies.

Ball couldn't repeat his 22-point performance from earlier this week, but there is no question he's trending in the right direction -- he has scored 13 or more points in three of his last four contests while also showing flashes of his upside as a playmaker with three straight games of five or more assists. Ball has also reached the 20-minute mark in three straight contests, so his upside is clearly moving in the right path.

Ball notched 22 points (7-10 FG, 4-5 3Pt, 4-4 FT), nine rebounds, five assists, a steal and a block across 29 minutes off the bench in Wednesday's win over the Mavericks.

Ball went scoreless in his NBA debut, but he has been quite solid since then -- he has scored in double digits in two of his three contests while averaging 6.7 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game in that three-game stretch. Ball might not start any time soon with Devonte Graham and Terry Rozier in the roster, but he has been playing well off the bench of late and will try to continue that strong run of form Friday against the Grizzlies.

Ball had six points (2-6 FG, 2-3 3PT), five rebounds and five assists in Sunday's win over the Nets.

Ball did commit three turnovers, but otherwise it was a solid all-around game for the rookie, who saw 20 minutes of action after playing 16 and 15 minutes, respectively, in his first two games. Ball is 4-of-7 from downtown in his last two appearances.

Ball recorded no points (0-5 FG, 0-3 3Pt), three assists, two steals and one rebound during a 121-114 loss at Cleveland on Wednesday.

Ball subbed in just four minutes into Wednesday's game after the Hornets struggled early. He showed glimpses of talent with some solid passing but must improve at shooting to fulfill his potential. Ball will otherwise continue having games like this one, where he sat out the fourth quarter after playing 16 minutes.

Ball scored 18 points (7-17 FG, 4-9 3PT) to go along with two rebounds, five assists and one steal across 26 minutes against the Magic in Thursday's preseason contest.

Ball hasn't hesitated to find his shot during the preseason and that continued in his third contest. He tied for the team lead with 17 shots, over half of which came from three-point range. Ball may start the regular season by coming off the bench, but he should not struggle to make an impact during the minutes he receives.