Is LaMelo Ball playing tonight vs the Orlando Magic? Latest update on the Charlotte Hornets star's injury report (December 26, 2025)

LaMelo Ball’s status is still unclear for the Charlotte Hornets’ game against the Orlando Magic on December 26, 2025. He has not been ruled in or out, leaving Charlotte without a firm answer as game time approaches.The Hornets have dealt with injuries all season, and Ball’s situation fits that pattern. He has played through ankle and wrist problems for months. While his name continues to appear on injury watchlists, the team has not given a final update. Anyone waiting to see him play will need to check the official report closer to tip-off.LaMelo Ball remains listed as uncertain. No new injury has been specified for this matchup, but his recent history includes left ankle soreness and wrist issues that have affected his availability throughout the season.Charlotte Hornets’ injury concerns extend beyond LaMelo Ball. Ryan Kalkbrenner is out with a left elbow sprain. Mason Plumlee will miss the game with a right groin strain. Grant Williams remains sidelined after right knee surgery. With several rotation players unavailable, Charlotte’s margin for error is thin.Orlando Magic also enters the game short-handed. Franz Wagner is out due to a left high ankle sprain, removing one of the Magic’s main scoring options. Jalen Suggs is listed as doubtful with a left hip contusion. Goga Bitadze is questionable because of a left knee strain.Even with those absences, Orlando has played well at home. The Magic are 10-4 at the Kia Center this season and have relied on defense and depth to stay steady when starters are missing.When LaMelo Ball plays, Charlotte’s offense looks different. In recent games when healthy, he has been around 23 points and nine assists per night, while also stretching the floor with his shooting. Without him, the Hornets have struggled to generate consistent offense.If Ball does not play, more responsibility will fall on Miles Bridges, who leads the team at 20.6 points per game. Orlando could take advantage of that by leaning on its defensive guards and home-court comfort. With Ball’s status unresolved, the shape of this game depends on a late decision.