Charlotte Hornets star guard LaMelo Ball suffered an unusual injury early in Monday’s game against the New Orleans Pelicans after colliding with Hornets head coach Charles Lee. Ball was quickly taken to the locker room due to a laceration above his eye but was cleared to return to play later in the first quarter.
Performance Despite Injury and Team Dynamics
Returning to the court, Ball contributed 24 points, helping lead the Hornets to a victory. Despite this strong showing, Ball’s availability has been a concern due to his history of injuries; he has missed significant time over the past three seasons, playing fewer than 50 games each year. This season, he has appeared in 41 of Charlotte’s 51 games, posting averages of 19.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 7.6 assists, marking his lowest scoring output since his rookie year in 2020-21.
Trade Speculations and Franchise’s Future Plans
Though LaMelo Ball has been mentioned as a potential trade candidate before Thursday’s deadline, The Athletic’s Sam Amick noted that the Hornets remain optimistic about retaining him.
if only because it makes little sense to trade him now.
Charlotte currently holds a 22-28 record but has built momentum with a six-game winning streak entering Monday’s matchup. The team’s youthful roster is showing promise, and maintaining Ball’s presence is seen as vital in their push to compete within the Eastern Conference.
Outlook After Injury Incident
While the collision with coach Lee startled fans and raised concerns, the injury appears to be minor without long-term effects. The Hornets are relieved Ball can continue playing as they aim to sustain their current winning rhythm. With the trade deadline approaching, it seems more likely LaMelo Ball will remain a key part of Charlotte’s plans moving forward.
UPDATE: @hornets guard LaMelo Ball left the first quarter of today’s game with a laceration above his eye. He’s available to return to the game.
— Charlotte Hornets PR (@HornetsPR) February 2, 2026
