LaMelo Ball Ruled Out Indefinitely

The Charlotte Hornets playoff hopes took a serious blow on Saturday night as LaMelo Ball, the front-runner for NBA Rookie of the Year, injured his wrist and will be out for the rest of the regular season.  

LaMelo was hurt on a drive to the basket in the Hornets 125-98 blowout loss to the LA Clippers, going down hard on his right wrist. Ball has exceeded the expectations of most in his standout rookie season as he leads all rookies in rebounding, assists, steals and is 2nd in points scored. He has provided the typical Ball family flair with his natural artistry and has made the Hornets a must-watch team. Perhaps even more important than his flash is his leadership and professionalism in his maiden NBA season - Ball has commanded the floor with the poise of a veteran. 

Does Ball's injury now open the door for another rookie to step in and take the Rookie of the Year away from him? Anthony Edwards has been coming on strong after the All-Star break and Tyrese Haliburton is in the midst of a stellar rookie season, but neither has been as impactful to winning as LaMelo. It will be interesting to see whether the votes will stick with Ball or if they are placed elsewhere. 

Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports