Claire Dawson
LaMelo Ball, the Charlotte Hornets' star NBA point guard, underwent surgery for a right wrist fracture and a right ankle impingement at the Hospital for Special Surgery in Manhattan, New York. Ball had been dealing with injuries since his selection by the Hornets in the 2020 NBA Draft, and these recent procedures aimed to address ongoing issues with his right wrist and ankle. The surgeries were deemed successful, and Ball is expected to make a full recovery.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reason for hospitalisation | Surgery for right wrist fracture and right ankle impingement |
| Hospital | Hospital for Special Surgery in Manhattan, New York |
| Surgery date | 3rd April 2025 |
| Recovery time | 4–6 weeks |
| Return to basketball activity | Expected within 4–6 weeks |
| Expected workload | Full workload in the offseason |
| Games missed | Minimum 25 games in each of the past three seasons |
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What You'll Learn
LaMelo Ball had successful surgeries on his wrist and ankle
LaMelo Ball underwent successful surgeries on his right wrist and right ankle at the Hospital for Special Surgery in Manhattan, New York. The procedures were separate and minor, addressing a right ankle impingement and a wrist fracture.
Ball, a star point guard for the Charlotte Hornets, has had a promising career since being selected third overall in the 2020 NBA Draft. However, injuries have plagued him, and he has only played in 231 games across four-plus seasons. Before his recent surgery, Ball played through pain, missing at least 25 games in the last three seasons. He also underwent right ankle surgery in 2023, and this is the second consecutive year he has ended the season early on March 28.
The decision for Ball to have the procedures done now was made to allow him to get a head start on his rehabilitation. It is expected that he will make a full recovery and resume basketball activities within four to six weeks, coinciding with the team's predraft process.
Ball's successful surgeries and impending recovery are positive news for the Hornets, who have struggled in recent years. With Ball's talent and potential, the team will be eager to see him back on the court and thriving once again.
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Ball will miss the rest of the season
LaMelo Ball underwent surgery on his right wrist and right ankle on Wednesday, April 3, 2025, and will miss the rest of the season. The Charlotte Hornets guard had been experiencing pain in recent weeks before consulting doctors and deciding on the procedure. Ball is expected to make a full recovery and resume basketball activities within four to six weeks, coinciding with the team's pre-draft process.
Ball's surgery addressed a right ankle impingement and right wrist fracture. He had played through pain in recent weeks, but the decision was made to address these issues before the end of the Hornets' season on April 12. By starting his rehabilitation early, Ball is expected to be ready for training camp in the fall.
The 23-year-old has been plagued by injuries throughout his career, playing only 231 games across four-plus seasons in the NBA. This includes ankle injuries that have caused him to miss at least 25 games in the past three seasons and a previous surgery on his right ankle in 2023. Despite this, Ball has demonstrated impressive statistics, averaging 21.0 points, 6.0 rebounds, 7.4 assists, and 1.5 steals in 231 contests.
Ball's injury and absence for the remainder of the season may fuel trade rumors, especially considering the recent shock transfer of Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers. With Ball's maximum rookie contract extension worth over $160 million still largely unpaid, the Hornets may struggle to get equal value in a potential trade. However, the team has accumulated significant draft capital, with 11 first-round and 13 second-round picks moving forward.
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Ball's recovery timeline
LaMelo Ball underwent surgery on his right wrist and right ankle on Wednesday, April 3, 2025, at the Hospital for Special Surgery in Manhattan, New York. The procedures were deemed successful, and the Charlotte Hornets star is expected to make a full recovery.
Prior to his surgery, Ball had been dealing with injuries for some time. He injured his wrist on March 20, 2025, in a game against the Los Angeles Clippers. He returned to the game after drawing a foul but later underwent surgery for a wrist fracture. Ball also has a history of ankle injuries, having undergone surgery on his right ankle in 2023.
The Hornets' team doctors and outside specialists are confident that the procedures will enable Ball to heal fully and productively during the offseason. Ball is expected to have a full workload and resume basketball activities within the estimated timeframe.
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Ball's injury history
LaMelo Ball has had a string of injuries that have kept him out of action for the Charlotte Hornets. In the 2022-23 preseason, Ball suffered a grade 2 sprain on his left ankle, causing him to miss the Hornets' last three preseason matches and the first 13 of the regular season. After returning, he reinjured the same ankle and had to sit out 11 more games.
In November 2024, Ball suffered a left calf strain that kept him out for two weeks. He returned to action but continued to experience discomfort in his ankle and wrist, which led to him being sidelined periodically as part of his injury management program.
In March 2025, it was announced that Ball would miss the rest of the season to recover from his ankle and wrist injuries. He underwent successful surgeries on his right wrist and right ankle and is expected to make a full recovery. This marks the fourth time in five seasons that Ball will miss at least 35 games due to injuries.
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Ball's future with the Charlotte Hornets
LaMelo Ball's future with the Charlotte Hornets is uncertain. While Ball has expressed his desire to remain with the team and work towards success, the Hornets' new ownership group will need to decide if he is a foundational player or if they should explore trading him for significant draft compensation. Ball's recent injuries and surgeries have raised concerns about his durability, and the Hornets are considering their options as they aim for a playoff spot.
Ball has been a standout player for the Hornets, leading the league in key stats and putting "asses in seats." His value to the team extends beyond his on-court performance, and he has a loyal fan base. However, the Hornets have struggled to find success in recent years, and there are questions about whether Ball is the solution to their problems. The team has explored potential trades, and while Ball has four years remaining on his contract, his future with the Hornets is uncertain.
Ball's recent injuries have only added to the concerns about his durability. He has undergone surgeries on his right wrist and right ankle, causing him to miss significant playing time. While he has expressed optimism about his recovery, the Hornets are cautious about his return and are focused on ensuring he is fully healed before he gets back on the court.
The Hornets are at a crossroads with Ball. On the one hand, they recognize his talent and impact on the team and the league. On the other hand, they are aware of his injury history and the potential benefits of trading him for draft picks or other players. The team's president of basketball operations, Jeff Peterson, has demonstrated a willingness to make tough decisions, and the upcoming Draft Lottery may provide some clarity on their plans for Ball.
Ball's future with the Hornets remains to be seen. While he has expressed his commitment to the team, the Hornets' front office will need to make a decision that they believe is best for the organization's long-term success. Ball's talent is undeniable, but the Hornets will need to carefully consider their options and determine if they can build a winning team around him or if a trade is the best path forward.
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Frequently asked questions
LaMelo Ball was in the hospital for surgeries on his right wrist and right ankle.
Yes, LaMelo Ball had surgery on his right wrist after fracturing it.
Yes, LaMelo Ball underwent arthroscopic surgery to address a right ankle impingement.
LaMelo Ball had successful surgeries on April 3, 2025.
Yes, LaMelo Ball missed several games due to his injuries, including the game against the Toronto Raptors and the remainder of the 2024-25 season.
