LaMelo Ball Ready to Lead Hornets Against Nuggets in Denver
The Charlotte Hornets will meet the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena on January 18, 2026. Star guard LaMelo Ball is fully available for this matchup. Team officials confirm he is not listed on the injury report. Ball is projected to start the game.
This news ends any speculation about his condition following a demanding West Coast road trip. The Hornets view this contest as an opportunity to finish their journey with a positive result.
Ball's Crucial Role in Charlotte's Offense
LaMelo Ball has been the primary engine for the Charlotte Hornets throughout their recent road games. He kept the team competitive against tough Western Conference opponents.
During the trip, Ball averaged an impressive 21.8 points per game. He also handled the majority of the playmaking responsibilities for the squad. His standout performance came against the Los Angeles Lakers, where he recorded 30 points and 11 assists.
That game demonstrated his increasing ability to control the tempo during crucial late-game situations. For the entire season, Ball is maintaining averages of 20.2 points and 7.6 assists per contest.
His scoring has hovered around 20 points per game in January. The Hornets began the month with a 4-5 record. Teammate Miles Bridges recently praised Ball for making smarter decisions in clutch moments. Bridges noted that Ball is now choosing between scoring and passing more effectively, rather than forcing difficult shots.
Injury Report for Both Teams
The Charlotte Hornets enter this game with a relatively clean injury sheet compared to their opponents. LaMelo Ball faces no playing restrictions whatsoever.
For Charlotte, forward Moussa Diabaté is currently questionable due to a hamstring issue. Center Mason Plumlee remains out of action as he recovers from groin surgery.
The Denver Nuggets are coping with more substantial absences. Star center Nikola Jokić is sidelined with a knee injury. Medical staff do not expect his return until February. Guard Christian Braun is also out with an ankle injury.
These significant losses place extra pressure on Denver's backcourt, particularly on Jamal Murray. Murray recently exploded for 42 points in a game and continues to serve as the team's main scoring threat.
Game Context and Expectations
The Hornets arrive in Denver with a 15-27 record for the season. They secured victories against the Lakers and the Utah Jazz during this road trip but fell to the Golden State Warriors. This final game holds importance for establishing balance and building team confidence.
The Denver Nuggets boast a strong 29-13 record. They are currently tied for second place in the competitive Western Conference. Despite missing key players, the Nuggets have won four consecutive games. They remain a formidable opponent on their home court.
Sportsbooks list Denver as a 3.5-point favorite, largely due to their home-court advantage and overall roster depth. However, LaMelo Ball's command of Charlotte's offense provides the Hornets with a genuine chance to keep the game close.
For Charlotte to compete, they must play strong defense and minimize turnovers. The game is scheduled to begin at 8:00 PM Eastern Time. Broadcast coverage will be available on NBA TV and through local television networks.
