Fanscout News

LaMelo Ball’s brief departure from Monday’s game due to an eye laceration raised concern, but he has been cleared to return, according to Hornets PR. Fantasy managers should monitor his playing time and any potential updates on his status for Thursday’s game against the Rockets to ensure the injury does not affect his performance.

LaMelo Ball contributed 16 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists in the Hornets’ victory over the Spurs, despite struggling with his shooting. However, his improved assist-to-turnover ratio, boasting 47 assists against 17 turnovers during Charlotte’s six-game win streak, highlights his development as a playmaker. Ball’s field goal percentage remains a concern for fantasy managers, but the reduction in turnovers offers a positive takeaway for those invested in his performance.

The Wizards vs. Hornets game on Saturday will now tip off at 12 p.m. Eastern, with the start time being moved up due to forecasted inclement weather in Charlotte. Fantasy basketball managers should take note of this change and adjust their lineups accordingly, particularly if they have LaMelo Ball or other players from either team in their rosters.

LaMelo Ball will be available for the Charlotte Hornets in their matchup against the Orlando Magic on Thursday, following concerns regarding his thumb. Despite being initially listed as questionable, Ball seems set to return to the starting lineup after managing his minutes cautiously during back-to-back games. This move is expected to push Sion James back to the bench, as the team continues to rely on Ball for crucial game-closing situations.

LaMelo Ball delivered an impressive performance in the Hornets’ victory over the Lakers, recording 30 points with a dominant display from beyond the arc, netting nine three-pointers. This marks his second 30-point game in four outings, highlighting his recent scoring surge. Ball paired his scoring prowess with 11 assists, securing his sixth double-double of the season. His recent form signals a promising trend after a slower start to the year, boosting his fantasy value significantly.

In Monday’s loss to the Clippers, LaMelo Ball recorded 25 points on 11-of-24 shooting, adding nine rebounds, five assists, a steal, and three three-pointers. Despite a strong finish to 2025, Ball’s scoring has dipped in the new year, with only two 20-point games out of seven this month. Currently averaging 19.3 points on 43.6 percent shooting, he ranks just outside the top-50 in eight-category formats, which might leave fantasy managers expecting more based on his previous performances.

LaMelo Ball played a pivotal role in the Hornets’ victory over the Jazz, posting 17 points along with five rebounds, five assists, and five three-pointers. However, fantasy owners should note the downside of his performance: five turnovers, his highest since late December. Despite this, Ball remains a top-25 player in eight-category formats over the last two weeks, maintaining his significant appeal for fantasy teams.

LaMelo Ball returns to the starting lineup for Saturday’s game against the Jazz after being rested in Thursday’s back-to-back. This adjustment relegates Collin Sexton to the bench, potentially affecting his fantasy output. The Hornets maintain their consistency with Kon Knueppel, Brandon Miller, Miles Bridges, and Moussa Diabaté also starting, while Ryan Kalkbrenner will ease back into action coming off the bench following his elbow injury.

LaMelo Ball has been cleared to play Thursday against the Pacers after being upgraded from probable. Despite his availability, Ball’s performances in January have been underwhelming, averaging only 15.0 points and 5.8 assists across four games. Fantasy managers are looking for a resurgence as the Hornets’ floor general aims to bounce back, especially on the second night of back-to-back games following a solid 15-point, 7-rebound, and 7-assist outing against the Raptors.

LaMelo Ball delivered a strong performance in the win against the Wizards, leading the team with 23 points while efficiently shooting 7-of-12 from the field. Contributing beyond scoring, Ball also added nine assists, two rebounds, one steal, and one block in just 24 minutes of play, showcasing his versatility and playmaking ability on the court.

LaMelo Ball made a strong return, leading the Hornets to a 133-126 win over the Hawks with 28 points, 13 assists, and eight three-pointers. After missing three games due to a left ankle bone bruise, Ball was impactful, particularly in the first half with 21 points and seven three-pointers. He logged 29 minutes without restrictions, setting the stage for Saturday’s matchup against the Pistons.

LaMelo Ball is set to return to the court for Thursday’s matchup against the Hawks after recovering from a bone bruise in his left ankle. While he will face a minutes restriction, his return suggests KJ Simpson’s role may still hold some relevance in the short term. Fantasy managers relying on Simpson should reassess his long-term value in their lineups.