Is LaMelo Ball playing tonight vs the New Orleans Pelicans? Latest update on the Charlotte Hornets star's injury report (November 4, 2025)

The Charlotte Hornets may have to make a crucial decision tonight as LaMelo Ball’s availability remains uncertain ahead of their matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans. The 23-year-old guard has been dealing with a right ankle impingement that kept him out of Sunday’s game against the Utah Jazz. His recovery progress is being closely watched, and his presence - or absence - could play a major role in shaping the Hornets’ chances on the road.

Ball’s injury has drawn significant attention given his importance to Charlotte’s offense. As one of the league’s premier playmakers, his ability to control tempo, create scoring opportunities, and rebound effectively makes him indispensable to the team’s success. The Hornets’ medical staff has listed him as questionable on the latest injury report released on November 4, 2025, indicating that his final game-time status will likely depend on how his ankle responds during pre-game warmups.

Latest Injury Update: Charlotte Hornets Monitoring LaMelo Ball Closely

The Charlotte Hornets confirmed that LaMelo Ball missed Sunday’s contest versus the Jazz due to his ongoing ankle issue, and while his condition has improved slightly, there’s still caution surrounding his return. He is listed as "questionable" for tonight's game vs the New Orleans Pelicans. The team’s official report categorized his status as questionable, suggesting that they’re weighing the risk of aggravating the injury against the need for his leadership on the court. Charlotte’s coaching staff has emphasized that Ball will undergo further evaluation before tip-off in New Orleans.

Injuries 11/4

MIL:
Yet to submit

TOR:
Jakob Poeltl - Questionable

ORL:
Moe Wagner - Out

ATL:
Trae Young - Out

PHI:
Jared McCain - Probable
Paul George - Out
Dominick Barlow - Out

CHI:
Ayo Dosunmu - Questionable
Coby White - Out
Zach Collins - Out

CHA:
LaMelo Ball -…

— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) November 4, 2025

The right ankle impingement has limited Ball’s ability to pivot and drive effectively - both critical parts of his dynamic playstyle. Although the Charlotte Hornets have managed without him in short stretches, his absence has been felt, especially in transition plays and late-game execution. Given how early it is in the season, the team is expected to prioritize long-term health over short-term gains, but a surprise return tonight remains a possibility if Ball clears medical checks.

LaMelo Ball’s Season Performance So Far

Before this setback, Ball had been delivering another impressive season, averaging 23.3 points, 9.8 assists, and 7.8 rebounds per game across six appearances. Those numbers highlight his all-around impact, not only as a scorer but also as a facilitator and rebounder. His chemistry with young teammates like Brandon Miller and Mark Williams has been a bright spot for the Charlotte Hornets’ developing offense.

If he takes the court tonight, Ball could immediately tilt the momentum in Charlotte’s favor. His court vision and rebounding ability have been key to keeping the Hornets competitive, and his playmaking presence helps stretch defenses, giving shooters more open looks.

Also read: Is Joel Embiid playing tonight vs the Chicago Bulls? Latest update on the Philadelphia 76ers star's injury report (November 4, 2025)

What It Means for Charlotte Hornets Fans

With the Charlotte Hornets sitting at 3–4 and aiming to even their record, Ball’s availability could be the deciding factor in their performance against a Pelicans squad still searching for its first win of the season. Fans and bettors alike will be watching closely for the team’s final update before tip-off. While uncertainty lingers, optimism remains that LaMelo Ball may suit up tonight and continue his strong start to the 2025-26 campaign.