Home
Charlotte Hornets are facing yet another setback as they prepare to open NBA Cup play on the road against the Miami Heat on Friday night. Following a disheartening loss to the New Orleans Pelicans, the Hornets are now grappling with key injuries that could heavily impact their performance in this crucial matchup.
LaMelo Ball and Collin Sexton listed as doubtful
According to the Charlotte Hornets’ public relations team, both LaMelo Ball and Collin Sexton have been downgraded to doubtful for Friday’s game. The announcement marks a significant blow for a Hornets squad already struggling to regain its rhythm early in the season.
Initial reports suggested Ball was questionable and Sexton probable, but neither player has shown the necessary progress to take the court. Ball has been sidelined for the last two games due to an ankle injury, and current evaluations indicate he will likely miss at least one more. Meanwhile, Sexton—who stepped up as Ball’s primary replacement—has been dealing with a strained neck, placing his own availability in jeopardy.
Hornets’ backcourt faces major strain
The injury woes couldn’t come at a worse time for the Hornets. The backcourt depth has taken a significant hit, with both LaMelo Ball and Collin Sexton sidelined. Their absence leaves the team scrambling for options as they enter the NBA Cup against a competitive Heat squad.
To compound matters, rookie forward Brandon Miller remains out with a shoulder injury that will keep him sidelined for several more weeks. Miller has played just one full game this season, and his absence continues to be felt on both ends of the floor. Losing Ball, Sexton, and Miller—three of the Hornets’ top five scorers—creates a serious offensive void that coach Steve Clifford will need to address swiftly.
Searching for reinforcements and silver linings
The Hornets’ hopes now rest on role players stepping up in an expanded capacity. The team will need unexpected contributions from the bench to keep up with Miami’s pace and intensity. However, there’s a small silver lining—Miami will also be shorthanded, as star center Bam Adebayo is set to miss another game due to a sprained big toe.
Still, the challenge remains steep for Charlotte. The team’s offensive creativity and playmaking largely hinge on LaMelo Ball’s presence, and without him and Collin Sexton, the Hornets will need to rely on disciplined ball movement and strong defensive effort to stay competitive in their NBA Cup opener.
The Hornets currently sit below .500 and desperately need a win to build momentum, but with their top guards doubtful, the road ahead looks tougher than ever.
ADVERTISEMENT
