Charlotte Hornets head coach James Borrego on Friday said rookie LaMelo Ball is making positive progress in his rehab from right wrist surgery on March 23.
The Hornets announced on Monday the cast on Ball’s wrist was removed after a CT scan determined the fractured bone was fully healed. He was cleared to return to individual basketball activity and the team is hopeful he can return soon to the lineup.
Borrego said there have been no setbacks to this point of his rehab.
He has made progress, I can say that for sure. From day one to where he is at today, he has made a significant jump. We still need to figure that out over the next week or so where he’s at, where his comfort level is, but I’m seeing progress. Every day, it’s getting better and better, so that is positive for us. There are no setbacks. His workouts have been positive, so we’re moving in the right direction.
On Thursday, Ball was seen prior to the Hornets facing the Chicago Bulls going through a small workout on the court. He participated in a number of dribbling drills and even drove to the basket a couple of times using his right hand.
The Hornets were initially optimistic that Ball could return within 7-10 days of getting his cast off, but the team will certainly not rush him back. Based on the latest comments by Borrego, Ball could soon return to the court and give the team a much-needed boost of offense.
Ball, through 41 games played, is averaging 15.9 points, 6.1 assists, 5.9 rebounds and 1.3 steals with the Hornets. Despite not playing since March 20, Ball ranks fourth in total scoring and second in assists among all rookie players.
This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
[lawrence-related id=29709,29084,28841]
[mm-video type=video id=01f0sht0fxmv7fg2wx playlist_id=01f09kz5ecxq9bp57b player_id=01f1jxkahtwnvzepyp image=https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/video/thumbnail/mmplus/01f0sht0fxmv7fg2wx/01f0sht0fxmv7fg2wx-3bb7850c4db1f7e39c2ac89f287f9bf0.jpg]
[listicle id=30817]