Charlotte Hornets fans can breathe a sigh of relief. Star point guard LaMelo Ball will take the court against the Los Angeles Lakers on January 15, 2026. The game tips off at 10:30 p.m. ET at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
No Injury Concerns for Ball
All pregame updates confirm Ball's availability. He does not appear on the official injury report. Team officials have not ruled him out for any reason. Live coverage and pregame footage show Ball active and fully involved in warm-ups. He appears ready for his usual role in the rotation.
This news comes after Ball dealt with ankle issues in November 2025. Since returning, his status has consistently improved. Recent injury reports list him as probable or fully active. No new concerns have emerged leading into this crucial game. Nothing suggests the Hornets will limit his minutes.
Hornets Need Ball's Leadership
The Charlotte Hornets enter this matchup with a challenging 14-26 record. They currently sit 12th in the Eastern Conference standings. The team is coming off a loss to the Los Angeles Clippers. Consistency has eluded them during this stretch of the season.
Despite their struggles, the Hornets possess multiple scoring threats. Four players on the roster average at least 19 points per game. However, the offense truly revolves around LaMelo Ball. His unique ability to score and create for teammates defines Charlotte's playing style on most possessions.
Ball's Current Season Performance
Ball is putting up solid numbers this season. He averages 20.1 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game. He also contributes 1.2 steals on the defensive end. While these figures are slightly lower than some of his earlier career highs, he remains the team's primary creator and offensive engine.
Since returning from his brief absences earlier in the year, Ball has been remarkably consistent. He regularly scores more than 19.5 points per game. His playmaking continues to be a major pillar of Charlotte's offensive strategy. The Hornets will lean heavily on his skills against a tough Lakers defense.
A Tough Challenge Against the Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers present a formidable opponent. They have won seven of their last ten games. During that stretch, they boast one of the league's better net ratings. The Lakers are playing solid, cohesive basketball.
Charlotte will likely need a standout performance from Ball to compete. He is expected to handle the ball frequently and generate offense against a Lakers team led by superstar Luka Dončić. Early substitution patterns and pregame activity indicate Ball will be part of the action from the opening tip. This game has the potential to become a high-scoring affair.
The Hornets face an uphill battle, but with a healthy LaMelo Ball, they have a fighting chance. All eyes will be on the young guard as he tries to spark his team to an important victory on the road.
