Charlotte Hornets Injury Report: Latest update on LaMelo Ball, Collin Sexton, & others

As the Charlotte Hornets prepare to host the Denver Nuggets on Sunday night, the team faces another challenging test amid a growing list of injuries. Charlotte enters the matchup sitting 12th in the Eastern Conference with a 7-16 record (.304), though they carry momentum from Friday’s road win over the Toronto Raptors.

Hornets enter matchup after confidence-boosting victory

The Hornets displayed encouraging signs in their 119-110 win over Toronto, led by Kon Knueppel’s 21 points and seven assists. Tidjane Salaun delivered a strong performance off the bench, matching Knueppel with 21 points and adding three assists. With improved energy and offensive rhythm, Charlotte will look to build off that victory as they return home for a cross-conference showdown.

Denver, meanwhile, arrives with a 16-6 record following a road victory over the Atlanta Hawks. Nikola Jokic once again set the tone with 40 points, nine rebounds and eight assists, while Jamal Murray added 23 points, five rebounds and 12 assists.

LaMelo Ball ruled out with ankle injury

Charlotte’s injury challenges continue to deepen, headlined by the loss of star guard LaMelo Ball. Charlotte Hornets have officially ruled out Ball due to a left ankle bone bruise suffered during Friday’s win, forcing him to exit the game early. His absence removes Charlotte’s primary offensive initiator and top playmaker, creating an immediate need for backcourt adjustments.

With Ball sidelined, Sion James and KJ Simpson are expected to see increased opportunities. Their expanded roles become even more critical with Charlotte also ruling out Collin Sexton, who remains unavailable due to a left quad strain. Additionally, Tre Mann has been ruled out with a right knee bone bruise, leaving the Hornets without three key guards.

Several Hornets remain out; Diabate wuestionable

The injury list extends further, with Pat Connaughton, Josh Green and Grant Williams also ruled out as they continue their recoveries. Charlotte’s rotation could be stretched even thinner depending on the status of Moussa Diabate, who is listed as questionable with right knee soreness.

Despite entering the matchup shorthanded, Charlotte Hornets aim to maintain momentum from their recent win and capitalize on home-court energy.