Why the Charlotte Hornets should be patient with LaMelo Ball’s return: A deep playoff run isn’t likely
Let’s be honest and simple here. Even though the Hornets have had a good season thus far, this is not a team that is going to make any kind of run in the East playoffs. Especially not from the 8-seed, where they currently are.
The Hornets are not going to pull off an upset against the Philadelphia 76ers and would be lucky to win a game or two. While the experience would be exceptionally valuable for the young roster, I’m not sure that’s worth potentially rushing LaMelo Ball back from injury.
Again, a lot of this depends on the conversations that are happening behind closed doors. Is there a chance of re-aggravating the injury as he rushes back on the court? Is there a non-zero chance that he could re-injury himself because he’s expediting the rehabilitation process?
These are all questions that the Hornets and Ball likely have the answers to and they clearly have more information than I do. Though, there’s no question that the team needs to be careful with their rookie star. Especially in a season where it may not even matter in the end.