Is LaMelo Ball playing tonight vs the Golden State Warriors? Latest update on the Charlotte Hornets star's injury report (January 17, 2026)

LaMelo Ball is expected to be available when the Charlotte Hornets play the Golden State Warriors on January 17, 2026, at Chase Center. He is not listed on the injury report and is set to start, giving Charlotte its primary ball-handler for a difficult road matchup.This game draws attention because it puts Ball opposite Stephen Curry. Both teams rely heavily on guard play and perimeter shooting, and the outcome may depend on which backcourt controls the tempo. Charlotte is in the middle of a West Coast trip and needs wins, while Golden State looks to protect its home floor.

LaMelo Ball's injury report vs the Golden State Warriors (January 17, 2026)

LaMelo Ball has fully moved past the left ankle bruise that bothered him earlier in the season. The injury sidelined him briefly, but he has been active throughout January and has handled full minutes without restriction.

There have been no setbacks reported in recent days.

Since returning, Ball has been productive from long range. He knocked down nine three-pointers against the Lakers and followed that with five more against Utah in a game where the Hornets scored 150 points. Charlotte enters the night with a 15–26 record, and Ball remains central to everything the team does on offense.

LaMelo Ball's Season Numbers and Recent Impact

Ball is averaging 20.1 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 7.7 assists this season, along with 3.8 made three-pointers per game.

Over recent stretches, his scoring has climbed past 22 points per night as defenses struggle to contain both his shooting and passing.When Charlotte faced Golden State on New Year’s Eve, Ball scored 27 points in a 132–125 loss. That game featured extended stretches where he and Curry traded baskets, setting up a clear reference point for this rematch.

Charlotte Hornets Matchup Breakdown Against Golden State

The Charlotte Hornets have won two of their last three road games and continue to lean on Ball and Brandon Miller, who is averaging more than 19 points per game.

Their offense is built around spacing and quick decision-making, especially when Ball is pushing the pace.Golden State remains favored at home, with Curry expected to carry the scoring load. Ball has made 71 three-pointers over his last 15 games, which gives Charlotte a chance to stay close if the shooting holds. A fast game with a high total score is likely.Also read: Charlotte Hornets vs Golden State Warriors injury report: Injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (January 17, 2026)

What This Game Means for Charlotte

Ball’s value shows up in how he organizes the offense and creates open looks for teammates. Charlotte has several players averaging around 19 points, but that balance depends on Ball’s ability to draw attention and move the ball. A road win against the Warriors would be significant for a team trying to stabilize its season and stay competitive away from home.