Noah Vonleh Injury: Updates on Hornets Rookie's Sports Hernia and Recovery

Charlotte Hornets first-round draft pick Noah Vonleh inched closer toward a return to game action after he played in a one-on-one game for the first time since suffering a sports hernia, per Rick Bonnell of the Charlotte Observer.

Bonnell reported that the ninth overall selection may play in five-on-five games as early as next week.

"I’m trying to see how I’m feeling when I’m moving laterally and when guys are physical with me, how I respond to it," Vonleh said. "I’m still being cautious with it, but I’m moving better. Very excited to be back on the court."

Although the Hornets will be heartened to see Vonleh's rehab process going well, expectations were likely bound to be somewhat tempered for his rookie season no matter what happened in the offseason. Most draft experts saw the former Indiana star as more of a raw prospect who needs a little more seasoning before he hits his stride. He possesses a wealth of potential.

In addition, Vonleh's listed third in ESPN.com's depth chart at power forward for Charlotte, behind Marvin Williams and Cody Zeller. Vonleh will likely see regular minutes for the Hornets in 2014-15, but it's doubtful that he'll be one of their key contributors this early into his career.