LaMelo Ball Returns to Starting Lineup, Posts 16 Points, 7 Assists

Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball (right thumb contusion) was cleared to play and returned to the starting lineup Thursday against the Orlando Magic, delivering 16 points (6-12 FG, 4-8 3Pt), seven assists, and six rebounds in a 124-97 victory. He sustained the injury Wednesday, where he played 22 minutes off the bench. Ball's return sparked a fast start for the Hornets, a stark contrast to his previous game where he scored just two points on 1-of-15 shooting.