LaMelo Ball Cleared to Start for Hornets in Pivotal Matchup Against Hawks
The Charlotte Hornets have received a significant boost ahead of their crucial Eastern Conference showdown with the Atlanta Hawks. Star point guard LaMelo Ball has been officially cleared to play and is expected to start when the teams meet at State Farm Arena on February 7, 2026.
Full Medical Clearance After Recent Scare
Ball enters this contest without any new injury concerns, according to the latest official injury report from the Hornets organization. The team has not listed him as out or questionable, confirming his active status for this important matchup.
This clearance comes just days after Ball suffered a concerning collision during Charlotte's game against the New Orleans Pelicans earlier in the week. The incident involved:
- A significant eye cut requiring medical attention
- A neck jolt from impact with head coach Charles Lee
- Both injuries occurring while chasing a loose ball
Despite the frightening nature of the collision, medical staff cleared Ball to return to that same game, and he has continued to play heavy minutes without any reported complications since then. The Hornets medical team has now moved him back to a full workload with no restrictions on his playing time or responsibilities.
Ball's Critical Role in Hornets' Offensive System
As Charlotte's primary ball-handler and offensive catalyst, Ball brings essential production to the lineup. His season averages demonstrate his multifaceted impact:
- 18.2 points per game as a scoring threat
- 6.4 assists per contest as the team's main playmaker
- 4.6 rebounds per game from the guard position
- Approximately 3.7 three-pointers made each game
Charlotte enters this matchup riding an impressive eight-game winning streak, with Ball's performance being instrumental in their recent success. The Hornets are actively trying to close the gap in the competitive Eastern Conference play-in race, making every game critical for their postseason aspirations.
Strategic Expectations Against Atlanta's Defense
Ball's responsibilities against the Hawks will include pushing the tempo, identifying mismatches in Atlanta's defensive schemes, and taking early three-point opportunities when available. His playmaking will be particularly important in setting up teammates including:
- Brandon Miller (averaging approximately 20.7 points per game)
- Kon Knueppel (contributing around 18.2 points and 6.0 rebounds)
- Miles Bridges (providing 14.8 points and 5.7 rebounds)
The Hawks defense is expected to defend Ball aggressively high on the floor, potentially forcing tougher jump shots. This defensive approach makes Ball's decision-making and ball control particularly important factors in this contest.
Charlotte's Complete Lineup Availability
The Hornets enter this game with no major absences from their rotation, meaning Ball should not face an increased workload beyond his normal responsibilities. Charlotte's projected starting lineup features:
- LaMelo Ball at point guard as primary ball-handler and playmaker
- Brandon Miller at small forward as a scoring leader
- Kon Knueppel at shooting guard providing scoring and rebounding
- Miles Bridges at power forward offering consistent production
- Moussa Diabaté at center contributing 7.3 points and 8.0 rebounds
Significance for Ball's Development and Team Success
This game represents another important step in Ball's ongoing development, particularly following earlier ankle issues that affected his season. The focus has now shifted to efficiency and decision-making as he continues to establish himself as Charlotte's franchise cornerstone.
A strong performance against Atlanta's defense—which can switch effectively but sometimes overcommits on ball screens—would reinforce Ball's status as the Hornets' most important player. Key aspects to watch include:
- His early-game tempo and pace-setting
- Three-point attempt frequency and accuracy
- Handling of defensive traps in pick-and-roll situations
Barring any last-minute changes to the injury report, Ball will take his customary place in the starting lineup as Charlotte continues their push toward postseason contention in the Eastern Conference.
