The LaMelo Ball-less Charlotte Hornets got off to a bad start in their road trip, with the Dallas Mavericks blowing them out in their Monday night showdown.

Dallas' size stifled everything the Hornets attempted to run offensively. The Hornets couldn't find a lot of easy lanes to the basket and their shots just weren't falling unfortunately. Charlotte only shot the ball 39.5 percent from the field, which isn't the most ideal way to win a game.

On the bright side, Terry Rozier returned from health and safety protocols and put up 20 points.

However, the void of LaMelo Ball is still very evident. Just ask James Borrego:

“He's significant for us because he creates a lot of the easy points for us. Transition points, easy stuff around the rim, he just generates those type of shots for us on his own,” Borrego said on the impact of Ball's absence.

“In transition and in the half court. Other guys are capable of doing that until LaMelo's back and fully healthy. People have to step up and create for us. Obviously, we miss Melo. Hopefully we get him back soon.”

Ball is the head of the snake for the Hornets. He runs the fast-paced offense for Charlotte down to a science, so it isn't exactly the easiest thing to replace.

Let's not forget that the Hornets are missing Mason Plumlee as well. A true seven-footer can help tip the scales in your favor in most games. Missing your starting point guard and center would be rough for any team in the league. Charlotte just needs to continue to weather the storm the best they can.

Maybe LaMelo can make his return during their six-game road trip. The Hornets will look to bounce back against the San Antonio Spurs in their next time out on Wednesday.