NBA Rumors: Hornets Young Star To Miss Start of Regular Season

Charlotte Hornets star Lamelo Ball will reportedly miss the beginning of the 2022-23 regular season after suffering a Grade 2 ankle sprain, according to The Athletic's Shams Charnia.

Ball was diagnosed with the leg injury on Monday during a preseason exhibition against the Washington Wizards.

The Hornets fortunately must feel relieved that their former No. 3 overall pick in 2020 did not sustain a significant injury that could have sidelined him for much longer.

Charania added that Ball's return will be based on rehab and treatment over the next couple of weeks, with success on that front the young star could potentially see time on the court at some point this month.

Charlotte begins their campaign against the San Antonio Spurs on Oct. 19th and will play another six games before the end of October.

Ball, who was voted an NBA all-star for the first time in his career last year, will be looking to lead his squad to a potential playoff berth in his third campaign, something his club hasn't reached since the 2015-16 season.

The 21-year-old has averaged a strong 20 PPG, six rebounds, and dished out at least seven assists in his first two seasons in the NBA.