LaMelo Ball returning to Charlotte Hornets after missing 16 games

Timberwolves' victory over Hornets was short-lived

Ball, who is averaging 23.4 points, 6.4 rebounds and 8.5 assists, is expected to make his return to the lineup on Wednesday against the New York Knicks.

LaMelo Ball is set to return to the Charlotte Hornets on Wednesday after missing 16 games with a sprained ankle.

Ball, who is averaging 23.4 points, 6.4 rebounds and 8.5 assists per game, was injured in a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on January 19.

The Hornets have gone 6-10 in Ball's absence, including a 114-107 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Monday night.

With Ball back in the lineup, the Hornets will be looking to improve their playoff chances. They are currently ninth in the Eastern Conference standings, two games behind the eighth-place Brooklyn Nets.

Ball's return is a big boost for the Hornets, who have struggled to score without him.

In the 16 games that Ball has missed, the Hornets have averaged just 105.3 points per game, which is 26th in the NBA.

With Ball back, the Hornets will be hoping to improve their offensive output and make a push for the playoffs.