Hornets' LaMelo Ball exits vs. Lakers with ankle injury

The Charlotte Hornets are facing an uphill battle playing shorthanded against the Lakers.

Star guard LaMelo Ball exited Monday's game against Los Angeles after suffering a left ankle sprain. The team announced that he would not return.

The injury occurred after Ball made a three-pointer off one foot and was backpedalling down the court when he stepped on Jarred Vanderbilt’s foot and fell backward, hitting his head hard on the floor. Ball then got up, intentionally fouled to stop the clock and then walked directly to the locker room under his own power with a slight limp.

Ball had seven points in nine minutes before the injury.

The one-time All-Star has had a strong campaign for Charlotte, averaging 28.9 points, 5.4 rebounds and 7.5 assists per game, but has dealt with a variety of injuries, causing him to miss 11 games.

The 23-year-old has a history of ankle injuries over his five-year career and hasn't suited up for more than 36 games since the 2021-22 season. He has been wearing braces this season to help protect his ankles.

The Hornets have a 12-30 record on the season and sit 14th in the Eastern Conference.

-- With files from the Associated Press

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