Charlotte Hornets Losing Two Starters for Several Games

The Charlotte Hornets were dealt some unfortunate news on Saturday morning as both LaMelo Ball and Terry Rozier have to enter the COVID-19 protocol list. They are now expected to miss several games.

After Charlotte’s LaMelo Ball and Terry Rozier entered into health and safety protocols, there’s concern of more possible positive Covid tests on the Hornets, sources tell ESPN. Team sent players and staff home from practice facility.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) December 4, 2021

Both Hornets guards have to miss at least 10 days unless they're each able to produce two negative COVID-19 tests within a 24-hour period. It's brutal timing for the team as they are already sliding, losing three straight games and now have to try and execute without their best player and Rozer who is a solid complimentary piece.

The Hornets are gearing up to tip-off against the Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers (twice), Sacramento Kings and Dallas Mavericks, now all without Ball and Rozier.

Ball has avoided the sophomore slump and is playing like a future MVP. The playmaking point-guard has recorded 20 points per game, 7.7 rebounds, 8.2 assists and 1.9 steals per game this season. Rozier on the other hand is a deadly shooter who is 35% from three and providing 17.7 points per game. 

The team is expected to confirm the news on Saturday. The Hornets are in Atlanta to take on the Hawks on Sunday and back home on Monday to host the 76ers.

**Update: Four Hornets now entering the protocol, including LaMelo Ball, Terry Rozier, Jalen McDaniels, and Mason Plumlee

Photo credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports