The Atlanta Hawks and Charlotte Hornets are set to square off in a matchup that could feature the return of two of the Eastern Conference’s most electric guards: Trae Young and LaMelo Ball. Both stars have been sidelined with injuries, but their status has been upgraded ahead of this game-injecting a fresh sense of intrigue into what might otherwise be a mid-December clash between two teams looking to find their footing.
Let’s start with Trae Young. The Hawks’ floor general has been out since early November after suffering a right MCL sprain, and while Atlanta has managed to tread water without him, his absence has been felt on both ends of the floor.
Young recently returned to practice and is now listed as questionable-a significant step forward after spending weeks on the injury report as out. It’s the first game of a back-to-back for Atlanta, so even if he doesn’t suit up tonight, his return appears imminent.
If he does play, the Hawks get back their offensive engine. Young’s ability to manipulate defenses with his deep shooting range, crafty pick-and-roll play, and elite passing vision is what makes Atlanta’s offense go. Without him, the Hawks have leaned more heavily on Dejounte Murray and their supporting cast, but there’s only so far you can go without your franchise point guard orchestrating the action.
On the other side, the Hornets are hoping to get LaMelo Ball back in the lineup after a three-game absence due to a left ankle bone bruise. Ball has dealt with a string of injuries this season, and Charlotte has had to adjust on the fly. To their credit, they recently pulled off a solid win over the Cleveland Cavaliers-an encouraging sign for a team that’s been trying to stay competitive despite the setbacks.
Ball is also listed as questionable, and like Young, his return would be a major boost. He brings pace, flair, and a unique playmaking touch that gives Charlotte’s offense a completely different rhythm. With Ball on the floor, the Hornets play faster, move the ball more freely, and have a legitimate shot creator who can break down defenses and set up teammates in transition or the halfcourt.
That said, the Hornets are still sitting at 8-18, 12th in the East, and looking for something to spark a turnaround. Getting Ball back could help stabilize things, but it’s going to take more than just one player to climb out of that hole. Still, his presence gives them a fighting chance on any given night-and against a Hawks team that’s also trying to find consistency, this game could be a fun one if both stars are cleared to play.
So while nothing is official yet, the potential return of Young and Ball adds a layer of excitement to this matchup. These aren’t just two teams battling for position-they’re two squads looking to reestablish their identity with their leaders back in the mix.
If both guards take the floor, expect fireworks. If not, we’re still inching closer to getting two of the league’s most dynamic young stars back in action.
Either way, the needle is moving in the right direction.