Los Angeles is currently on a six-game win streak, playing in the second matchup of the run. They entered the game against Charlotte with a 25-18 record, ranked as the No. 5 team in the Western Conference standings. During the game, Hornets star LaMelo Ball suffered an injury that led to a locker room visit.

A new year has meant a new LaMelo Ball. The Charlotte Hornets' do-it-all point guard has developed a pragmatic approach to his game in 2025 that has paid dividends in the standings and on the stat sheet.

LaMelo Ball received an important injury update ahead of the Hornets' game on Friday night against the Trail Blazers.