Is LaMelo Ball playing tonight against Philadelphia 76ers? Latest injury update for Hornets star (Dec. 16)

Charlotte Hornets superstar LaMelo Ball is available to play for the first time since Nov. 27 in Monday's matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers. The former All-Star was on the injury report, citing a left calf strain. However, Ball is ready to play against 76ers. The status upgrade is a huge relief for the point guard, who has been ruled out for the past seven consecutive games.

Ball's potential return comes at a crucial time for the Hornets, who are reeling with a 7-18 record after suffering nine losses in 10 games. They have sorely missed his 31.1 points, 5.4 rebounds and 6.9 assists per game production through most of this stretch. The Hornets haven't won just one game in Ball's absence across seven outings.

Ball suiting up against a shorthanded Philadelphia 76ers team without Joel Embiid and Jared McCain gives the Hornets a fair shot at claiming their second win in three games.

LaMelo Ball Stats vs. Philadelphia 76ers

LaMelo Ball has played six games against the Philadelphia 76ers, averaging 18.5 ppg, 6.3 apg and 5.2 rpg, shooting on 39/27/82 splits. He's won just once against the Hornets' conference rivals. Ball last played against the Sixers earlier this season on Nov. 10. He had 38 points, four rebounds, eight assists and two steals, shooting 43.3%, including 6 of 18 from 3.

However, the Hornets lost 107-105 after rookie Jared McCain dropped 27 points off the bench to lead the team with Paul George struggling and Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid sidelined.

How to watch Philadelphia 76ers vs. Charlotte Hornets game?

NBC Sports Philadelphia and FanDuel Sports Network Southeast (Charlotte) will provide local coverage of the game between the Philadelphia 76ers and Charlotte Hornets. Interested viewers without a cable TV connection and watch the contest live online via NBA League Pass with a subscription.

The Hornets' home arena, Spectrum Center, will host the game from 7:00 p.m. ET onwards. Philadelphia is a -3.5-point favorite with a -161 money line. The Hornets' hopes of winning this game would rely on LaMelo Ball's availability.