LaMelo Ball is trending toward a return just in time for a marquee point guard showdown. After missing three straight games with a left ankle bone bruise, the Hornets’ floor general is listed as probable for Thursday night’s clash against the Atlanta Hawks. And if he’s back on the floor, he’ll be staring down a familiar-and formidable-foe: Trae Young.
Young, who’s been sidelined for the past 22 games with a sprained MCL, is set to rejoin Atlanta’s starting lineup. His return was confirmed earlier today, and it couldn’t come at a better time for a Hawks team that managed to stay afloat without him, going 13-9 during his absence-including a narrow 113-110 win over Charlotte back on November 23.
But let’s be honest: this game is all about the backcourt battle.
LaMelo vs. Trae has quietly become one of the more entertaining individual matchups in the East, and there’s plenty of recent history to back that up.
Young has been a problem for Charlotte-flat out. He’s dropped 31 or more points in three of his last four games against the Hornets, including a 41-point explosion in October.
In their final meeting last season, he torched them from deep, going 5-for-9 from beyond the arc.
That kind of production doesn’t just happen by accident. Young’s feel for pace, his ability to manipulate defenders in the pick-and-roll, and his deep shooting range have made him a nightmare matchup for Charlotte’s defense. But tonight, he’ll have to prove he’s still got that gear after nearly two months off-and possibly while on a minutes restriction.
That’s where things get interesting.
LaMelo, if cleared to play, isn’t exactly easing back in either. He’s averaging 19.4 points and 8.5 assists in under 29 minutes per game this season-numbers that speak to his efficiency and offensive command.
He thrives in transition, always looking to push the pace and catch defenses slipping. That’s a tough cover for anyone, let alone a player returning from a knee injury.
Expect Charlotte to test Young early-especially with Ball’s ability to change speeds and create off the dribble. If Young’s lateral movement isn’t fully back yet, the Hornets will look to exploit it.
Defensively, Atlanta may turn to Sion James to help shoulder the load. The rookie’s calling card is his athleticism and defensive toughness, and he could be tasked with checking Ball or providing help on switches. That would allow Young to conserve energy and ease back into rhythm on the offensive end.
Bottom line: this one has all the ingredients for a high-octane point guard duel, but it’s also a test of timing, health, and rhythm for two stars trying to get back into their groove. If both Ball and Young are close to full strength, fans are in for a treat. If not, we’ll learn a lot about how each team adjusts-and who’s ready to take that next step as the season heats up.