CHARLOTTE, Dec. 31 – The Golden State Warriors arrive in the Queen City for a New Year’s Eve matinee that feels less like a celebration and more like a triage unit for the home team.
While the headline attraction remains the homecoming of Stephen Curry who is active and not listed on the injury report the drama surrounds who will be greeting him on the court. The Charlotte Hornets, currently sitting at 11-21, released a final injury report Wednesday morning that offers a mix of hope and dread for a team trying to salvage its season.
The Injury Report: A Mixed Bag
The biggest question mark hangs over forward Miles Bridges. After exiting Monday’s loss to the Milwaukee Bucks with a right ankle injury, Bridges is officially listed as Questionable (game-time decision). Losing Bridges would be a massive blow to a frontcourt already decimated by injuries to Mason Plumlee (groin) and Grant Williams (ACL).
However, there is a silver lining. Rookie sensation Kon Knueppel, who has missed time with his own ankle sprain, has been upgraded to Probable and is expected to suit up.
The return of Knueppel the 4th overall pick could provide a desperate spark. Before his injury, the sharpshooter was turning heads league-wide, with analysts noting he ranks among the league’s best in catch-and-shoot efficiency.
The “Must-Watch” Team That Can’t Stay Healthy
The frustrating cycle of injuries has become the defining story of Charlotte’s season, overshadowing what was supposed to be a breakout year.
Earlier this season, The Ringer’s Bill Simmons controversially ranked the Hornets as a top-tier “League Pass” team, a take that initially drew skepticism. However, with the explosive offensive flashes of LaMelo Ball and Knueppel, even critics like Zach Lowe have recently admitted vindication regarding the team’s entertainment value when they are actually on the floor.
“It’s a shame we haven’t seen them play for much more together,” one analyst noted regarding the trio of Ball, Brandon Miller, and Knueppel. “Just when it seems Ball and Miller have finally gotten a clean bill of health, it’s Knueppel’s turn to get injured.”
Warriors Steadying the Ship
On the other side, the Warriors (17-16) are quietly finding their rhythm, having won six of their last 10 games.
While they will be without Seth Curry (thigh) and veteran Al Horford (rest), Golden State’s core is intact. Stephen Curry continues to defy age, averaging nearly 29 points per game and leading the league in three-pointers made. Historically, Curry has put on a show in his hometown, averaging over 25 points in career matchups against Charlotte.
With tip-off set for 1:00 p.m. ET at the Spectrum Center, the Hornets will need every ounce of firepower they can muster to keep pace.
