Projected 2020 NBA Draft first-round pick LaMelo Ball is expected to miss at least another two weeks following a foot injury suffered in December, according to Jonathan Givony of ESPN.
Ball has not played with the Illawarra Hawks in the NBL since Nov. 30 after suffering a bruised foot in practice. The 18-year-old is apparently still in a walking boot and has been advised not to put any weight on his foot for at least two weeks.
The Hawks announced last month that Ball was expected to make a full recovery and finish out the season. However, the Hawks’ regular-season schedule concludes on Feb. 14 and the team is currently out of the playoff picture with only have 10 games left so there is a chance he may not be ready to return in time to finish the season.
In 12 games this season, Ball is averaging 17 points, 7.5 rebounds, seven assists and 1.7 steals for the Hawks, while he is shooting 37.3% from the field and 24.3% from 3-point range. As pointed out by Givony, Ball is considered to be a first-round pick but may need to do additional work to solidify himself as the top selection.
Most decision-makers of NBA teams vying for top draft selections did not have an opportunity to evaluate Ball in the 16 preseason and regular-season games he played in Australia and will likely need to see him play during the pre-draft process in May and June to feel comfortable with his candidacy as a top pick.
Ball has shown flashes this season to validate his case as a first-round pick. Prior to the start of the season, questions remained on his ability to play against bigger competition but Ball has all but answered any doubt after a strong campaign abroad.
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