Is LaMelo Ball playing? Latest injury report for Raptors vs Hornets 12/8

The Toronto Raptors do not have a ton of time to lick their wounds after a run of poor form, as they have yet another winnable game at home that they must figure out how to secure. This time, it's the Charlotte Hornets (albeit a wounded version) who are coming to town.

Even though LaMelo Ball is not going to suit up in this game for Charlotte, the presence of a surprisingly talented collection of young players led by No. 2 pick Brandon Miller will likely give a Toronto team fresh off a loss to the shorthanded Miami Heat all they can handle.

The Raptors must be well aware of the fact that they are running out of time to make wholesale changes. Be it through a lineup change or plain old elbow grease turning Toronto into a much more viable opponent, they need to start off strong.

Christian Koloko Injury Status for tonight’s Raptors vs. Hornets game

The Raptors will still be without Koloko, who is still recovering from a vague respiratory illness. Koloko was seen getting some shots up and doing more on-court work, which means he might be able to get back on track relatively soon and eventually rejoin the rotation.

LaMelo Ball Injury Status for tonight’s Raptors vs. Hornets game

Ball suffered an ankle injury that will rob him of a good chunk of his 2023-24 season and sideline him for his game against the Raptors. This is a shame for fans who wanted to see one of the best young talents in the game, as Ball was having his best statistical season to date.

Projected Starting Lineups Tonight

Toronto

PG Dennis Schroder
SG OG Anunoby
SF Scottie Barnes
PF Pascal Siakam
C Jakob Poeltl

Charlotte

PG Terry Rozier
SG Brandon Miller
SF Gordon Hayward
PF Miles Bridges
C Mark Williams

Toronto Raptors next five opponents

The Raptors' schedule includes a pair of tangos with the Hawks, a rematch against the Knicks, and another duel with this Hornets team. This could be pivotal in determining their chances to sneak into the postseason hunt and overcome a slow start.

Dec. 11 @ New York Knicks
Dec. 13 vs. Atlanta Hawks
Dec. 15 vs. Atlanta Hawks
Dec. 18 vs. Charlotte Hornets
Dec. 20 vs. Denver Nuggets

Raptors injury report

Christian Koloko-OUT-Respiratory condition

Hornets injury report

LaMelo Ball-OUT-Ankle
Cody Martin-OUT-Knee
Frank Ntilikina-OUT-Lower Leg