LaMelo Ball Set to Lead Charlotte Hornets Against Memphis Grizzlies
In a significant boost for the Charlotte Hornets, star point guard LaMelo Ball has been cleared to play and is expected to start in Wednesday night's game against the Memphis Grizzlies. The matchup is scheduled for January 28, 2026, at the First Horizon Coliseum, with Ball not listed on the injury report and no minutes restriction anticipated.
Ball's Availability and Impact on Hornets' Strategy
Ball's return to the lineup is crucial for the Hornets, as the team faces a tight standings situation where this game could shift momentum. When Ball is available, Charlotte's offense becomes more organized and difficult to defend, with his playmaking abilities elevating the team's performance. His presence removes any uncertainty about how the Hornets plan to approach this high-stakes matchup.
Earlier this month, Ball dealt with a right thumb contusion that briefly made him questionable for a game against Orlando. However, he played through the discomfort and has shown no lingering issues since. With no new injury concerns reported, he enters the Memphis game fully cleared and ready to run the offense as usual.
What Ball Brings to the Court Tonight
LaMelo Ball has demonstrated consistent performance when healthy, averaging around 20 points per game in recent outings while dishing out seven to eight assists and contributing solid rebounding numbers for a guard. Charlotte will rely heavily on him to:
- Control the tempo of the game
- Push the ball in transition for fast-break opportunities
- Create open looks for teammates like Brandon Miller and Miles Bridges
With Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant sidelined for this game, Ball should have increased freedom to dictate play at the top of the key. If the Hornets aim to secure a victory and cover the narrow point spread, Ball's leadership in scoring, playmaking, and late-game control will be essential.
Injury History and Lineup Context
Ball's availability always garners attention due to his history of ankle and hand injuries, which have limited his game appearances in recent seasons. Each healthy outing is vital for maintaining Charlotte's rhythm and cohesion on the court.
The Hornets are otherwise in good health, with Brandon Miller, Miles Bridges, Kon Knueppel, and Moussa Diabate all expected to start alongside Ball. While this lineup offers balance, Ball remains the key piece that holds everything together, making his performance pivotal for team success.
Why This Matchup Matters for Both Teams
Despite missing Morant, the Memphis Grizzlies still pose a threat with their size and defensive prowess, featuring players like Jaren Jackson Jr., Santi Aldama, and Jaylen Wells. This creates an intriguing contrast between Charlotte's speed-oriented attack and Memphis's interior presence.
The projected total points for the game sits above 230, indicating expectations for a fast-paced contest with plenty of perimeter shooting. Execution in the closing minutes could ultimately decide the outcome.
In summary, LaMelo Ball is playing, starting, and healthy, with the Hornets leaning on him to lead their offensive efforts. For Charlotte, this game begins and ends with the ball in his hands, making his performance a determining factor in their quest for victory.
