In Lonzo Ball’s first season with the Los Angeles Lakers, he has dealt with two major injuries that have resulted in 22 missed games. As Brandon Ingram returned from a 12-game absence against the Dallas Mavericks, Ball unfortunately suffered another injury in the third quarter.
According to Ryan Ward of ClutchPoints, the 20-year-old was ruled out for the rest of the game against the Mavericks due to a left knee contusion:
Lonzo Ball is OUT for the rest of the game with a knee contusion on his left leg #Lakers
— Ryan Ward (@RyanWardLA) March 29, 2018
After the game, head coach Luke Walton shared Ball will get an MRI after getting kneed on a back screen, according to Ward:
Luke Walton says Lonzo Ball will get an MRI on his knee. They think he’ll be okay, but will await the results #Lakers
— Ryan Ward (@RyanWardLA) March 29, 2018
As of right now, it is unclear if Ball will miss any additional games due to the latest injury. With just eight games in the 2017-18 NBA season, the Lakers have been extremely cautious with their players and may opt for Ball to take his time over the next two weeks.
If the rookie does indeed miss time, Walton will continue to be creative with his rotations. While Isaiah Thomas is out for the remainder of the season, Josh Hart could return against the Milwaukee Bucks. Although Ingram is currently on a minutes restriction, he could see time at point guard like he did earlier in the season.
Ball is averaging 10.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 7.3 assists in 51 appearances.