The Charlotte Hornets are gearing up for a challenging return from the All-Star break, facing off against the formidable Houston Rockets on Thursday night. The Hornets, who saw their impressive nine-game winning streak snapped by the Detroit Pistons on February 9, bounced back with a victory over the Atlanta Hawks on February 11. Now, they aim to recapture that winning momentum.
Injury concerns have been swirling around the team, particularly regarding LaMelo Ball and Coby White. While White, who was acquired at the trade deadline, has yet to make his debut due to a calf injury, LaMelo Ball is set to play after being involved in a car accident on Wednesday. Thankfully, he wasn't listed on the injury report and will be available for the game.
The official NBA injury report has ruled out several key players for the Hornets: Miles Bridges and Moussa Diabate are both serving suspensions following a scuffle in their loss to the Pistons, and Liam McNeeley joins Coby White on the sidelines due to an ankle issue.
The Rockets, not without their own challenges, will miss Steven Adams and Fred VanVleet due to ankle and knee injuries, respectively.
Currently sitting as the No. 9 seed in the Eastern Conference, the Hornets are eager to regain their rhythm and push forward in the standings. Thursday's matchup against one of the Western Conference's top teams will be a true test of their resilience and depth.