Lee was told postgame of Ball’s latest status. MRI results on his left ankle confirmed that it is a left ankle sprain, and the Hornets said their guard will be re-evaluated in one week, news that the head coach welcomed but still leaves his team in a bit of limbo at present.

However, Toumani Camara, Donovan Clingan, Kris Murray, and Anfernee Simons, the Trail Blazers' leading scorer, are all expected to play tonight. Clingan, Portland's first-round pick (7th overall in 2024), was sidelined for the past five games due to an ankle injury.

Charlotte, which has now won five of its past eight games, dominated against Zion Williamson and the Pelicans.