CHARLOTTE, Dec. 31 — The Charlotte Hornets are limping toward the finish line of 2025. As the Golden State Warriors arrive at the Spectrum Center for a special 1 PM New Year’s Eve tip-off, Charlotte’s depth chart is being tested like never before.
Head coach Charles Lee faces a daunting challenge against Stephen Curry and the Warriors, with the team’s latest injury report confirming that the frontcourt remains decimated. Both rookie center Ryan Kalkbrenner and veteran Mason Plumlee are officially out, leaving the Hornets vulnerable in the paint against Golden State’s motion offense.
Frontcourt Woes Continue
The center position remains the primary area of concern. Ryan Kalkbrenner, the 7-foot-1 rookie out of Creighton, will miss his fifth consecutive game due to a nagging elbow strain that has proven more serious than initially feared. With Mason Plumlee also sidelined as he rehabs a groin injury, the Hornets are forced to get creative.
In their absence, Moussa Diabaté has stepped up, thriving in an extended role that demands high energy and rebounding. The team has also leaned on PJ Hall, signed as a backup option, to plug the gaps in the rotation.
“Iron Man” Streaks in Jeopardy
Perhaps the most significant development is the status of Miles Bridges. Until today, Bridges and rookie Sion James were the only Hornets to appear in every game this season. That streak is now in serious danger. Bridges has been downgraded to questionable with an ankle injury, potentially leaving James as the sole survivor of the team’s “Iron Man” club.
Adding to the perimeter concerns, veteran Pat Connaughton is also listed as questionable with an ankle issue, further thinning the wing defense needed to chase Golden State’s shooters.
A Rookie Return?
It’s not all bad news for Buzz City. Rookie sensation Kon Knueppel has been upgraded to probable. The Duke product missed his first game of the season during the recent loss to the Milwaukee Bucks, and his expected return provides a much-needed injection of shooting and spacing.
Knueppel’s return comes at a critical time. Following today’s matinee, the Hornets embark on a grueling three-game road trip, starting with a return to Knueppel’s hometown of Milwaukee before stops in Chicago and Oklahoma City.
