The Hornets continued life without LaMelo Ball this week in impressive fashion. On Monday, about 24 hours removed from the news of a possible end-of-season breakup, Charlotte posted a win in San Antonio. They closed their road trip Wednesday with a beating win in Houston, moving back over .500 and into fourth seed in an Eastern Conference playoff draw.
However, the loss of a Ball is felt on and off the court in the days since his injury.
“It’s definitely been difficult,” PJ Washington said. “I think LaMelo is a good boy. It certainly has high spirits. I can’t wait to get it back. It gives us a lot of energy. He’s funny, always joking around, non-stop talking. always energy. So it’s just great to be around, but I’m excited that everything went well and I hope it improves. ”
Gordon Hayward was similarly injured in the preseason when he broke his thumb, although he managed to play through his injury. But Hayward’s unfortunate history with injuries could allow him to be someone to help lead LaMelo through the coming weeks and months.
“Injury sucks,” Hayward said. “I feel really bad for him. He is playing at a very high level. It was great for our team. I think he was just getting on, too. I think we all feel for Melo… we all wish him well and he was very important to our team. “
Another veteran who has already helped Ball during the season is Terry Rozier. Both have been close both on and off the court this season and when Ball received the judgment on his hand, it was Rozier and Miles Bridges who stayed by his side to make it spirits kept high Sunday.
“I feel for him,” Rozier said. “It’s not always easy to deal with things like this, hearing that you’re going to be out for the season. Melo is like my little brother. I know him. I know how it works. If he was in charge, he would play on the left. That’s just the competitor he is. But you had to shut it down. I just have to keep getting better and just stay ready.
“I was with him yesterday just trying to keep a standard for him, me and Miles. It is in a good location. It will be fine. ”
After Wednesday’s game, Bridges took to Twitter to show that he wants to get a Ball back with the team as well.
Miss you Dip @ MELOD1P !!!!!
– Miles Bridges (@MilesBridges) March 25, 2021
Eventually, Ball may be able to return this season, even though he will be cut near the end of the regular season. But returning to the sidelines and the practice court around the team may have as much of an impact on the team’s confidence as they enter a playoff race.