LaMelo Ball Sidelined Again as Hornets Face Bucks
The Charlotte Hornets will be without their star guard LaMelo Ball for the fifth consecutive game when they host the Milwaukee Bucks on November 12, 2025. The 24-year-old continues to recover from a right ankle impingement that has proven more persistent than initially anticipated.
Injury Timeline and Recovery Process
Ball's current ankle issues first emerged during the Hornets' game on November 1, 2025, and the team has taken a cautious approach to his rehabilitation. The organization recently assigned Ball to their G League affiliate, the Greensboro Swarm, for a carefully monitored ramp-up process. While reports indicate he has been participating in limited practice sessions to rebuild strength and mobility, team medical staff have not provided a definitive timeline for his return.
The concern around Ball's ankle stems from his history of ankle problems throughout his young career, including previous sprains and fractures on both legs. The Hornets are prioritizing long-term health over short-term results, ensuring their franchise player avoids any setbacks before rejoining the lineup.
Hornets' Struggles Without Their Star
Charlotte's season has taken a significant downturn during Ball's absence. The team currently holds a 3-7 record and has lost three consecutive games since their star guard went down. Offensively, the Hornets have particularly struggled without Ball's exceptional playmaking and court vision.
Before his injury, Ball was averaging impressive numbers: 23.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 9.8 assists per game this season. His ability to orchestrate the offense and elevate his teammates has been sorely missed. The situation has been compounded by injuries to other key contributors including Brandon Miller, Josh Green, and Grant Williams, leaving the team dangerously thin on both ends of the court.
Coaching Perspective and Future Outlook
Head coach Charles Lee remains optimistic about Ball's progress, emphasizing that the young guard shows daily improvement in movement and strength. "The organization's main focus is ensuring LaMelo's complete recovery before returning to action," Lee stated. The assignment to the G League affiliate suggests the Hornets are preparing him for a gradual return to full-speed play.
While there's no set date for Ball's comeback, Coach Lee hinted that regular game activities could resume once the guard clears all medical benchmarks. For tonight's matchup against the Bucks, the Hornets will rely heavily on Collin Sexton, whose playmaking and assist numbers have notably increased when Ball isn't on the court.
The Milwaukee Bucks enter the game as clear favorites against the short-handed Hornets. With Ball's continued absence and multiple other injuries plaguing the roster, Charlotte faces an uphill battle as they search for stability early in the season.
