Is LaMelo Ball playing tonight vs the Houston Rockets? Latest update on the Charlotte Hornets star's injury report (February 5, 2026)

LaMelo Ball is set to play tonight when the Charlotte Hornets face the Houston Rockets at the Toyota Center. He had a minor eye injury after a collision with coach Charles Lee in the previous game but recovered quickly and continued to play.The Hornets are currently on a seven-game winning streak and hold a 23-28 record. They are aiming to improve their position in the Eastern Conference. The Rockets, with a 31-18 record, are dealing with several injuries that could impact their performance.

Charlotte Hornets Injury Report vs Rockets (February 5, 2026)

The Charlotte Hornets have a few players listed on their injury report:Out: • KJ Simpson (hip flexor strain) • Nick Richards (lower back issue) • Cody Martin (knee soreness)Questionable: • Miles Bridges (ankle) • Tidjane Salaün (illness)Expected to Play: • Terry Rozier (shoulder soreness)LaMelo Ball continues to lead the offense, with Jalen Duren handling frontcourt duties and Bryce McGowens providing scoring from the bench.

Houston Rockets Injury Report vs Hornets (February 5, 2026)

The Rockets are facing challenges with several key players unavailable:Out: • Fred VanVleet (torn ACL) • Steven Adams (ankle surgery) • Jae’Sean Tate (wrist)Questionable: • Tari Eason (injury management) • Dorian Finney-Smith (ankle)With these absences, players like Kevin Porter Jr. and Jabari Smith Jr. are expected to take on larger roles, supported by Tari Eason and Amen Thompson in the starting lineup.

Hornets vs Rockets Head-to-Head and Team Stats

Historically, the Rockets have had the upper hand in this matchup:

All-Time Regular-Season Series:

• Rockets Wins: 51 • Hornets Wins: 20In their previous meeting this season, the Rockets won in Charlotte, utilizing effective three-point shooting and fast-break opportunities.

Team Stats (as of Feb 5, 2026):

Charlotte Hornets vs Houston Rockets Key Matchups and Game Dynamics

• LaMelo Ball vs. Rockets’ Perimeter Defense: Ball’s playmaking will be crucial in breaking down Houston’s defense, especially with the Rockets missing key defenders. • Alperen Şengün’s Inside Presence: With the Hornets missing frontcourt players like Richards and Martin, Şengün could exploit the paint. • Pace Control: Houston prefers a fast-paced game with quick transitions, while Charlotte thrives in structured half-court sets. The team that dictates the tempo may gain the upper hand.

Charlotte Hornets vs Houston Rockets Game Details (February 5, 2026)

• Date & Time: February 5, 2026, at 8:00 PM ET • Venue: Toyota Center, Houston, TX • Broadcast: SCHN and FDSSEAlso read: Charlotte Hornets vs Houston Rockets injury report: Who's playing, injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (February 5, 2026)Both teams are aiming for playoff positions, making this game significant for their respective standings.