Hornets get tough update on LaMelo Ball's injury status

According to The Athletic's Shams Charania, Ball is currently in a walking boot and needs crutches to get around. However, the NBA Insider stopped short of providing a tangible timeline for Ball's absence, and that ambiguity will have Hornets' fans concerned. 

Fortunately, Ball did avoid a fracture in the ankle, which would have been the second straight season he had suffered such an injury. 

Ball, 22, has enjoyed a strong start to the season. The flashy guard is averaging 24.7 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 8.2 assists, shooting 44.3% from the field and 38.8% from three-point range. However, his bid to earn a second All-Star appearance has now been derailed. 

Fortunately for the Hornets, they're used to operating without Ball in the rotation. He's only participated in more than 60 games once in his short career. Terry Rozier will likely step into the role of primary ball-handler in Ball's absence. 

Still, Charlotte came into this season looking to develop a partnership between Ball and second-overall draft pick Brandon Miller. Mitch Kupchak and the front office will be hoping their star guard can return to the court in the near future. 

Of course, the most important thing will be ensuring Ball is healthy and not at risk of re-aggravating his injury. 

Steve Clifford will now re-work his rotation and do his best to keep the Hornets competitive while they await their star player's return. Without Ball, the Hornets' chances of competing for a spot in the play-in tournament are slim. 

Nevertheless, a silver lining will be the additional ball-handling duties Miller will get in the coming weeks or months. And that can only be good for his and the franchise's long-term development.