Miami Heat vs. Charlotte Hornets: Latest Injury Update Ahead of Play-In Elimination Game

LaMelo Ball ans Tyler Herro (Photo By Imagn Images)

Miami Heat vs. Charlotte Hornets: Latest Injury Update Ahead of Play-In Elimination Game

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports
By Debmallya Chakraborty | Last updated Apr 14, 2026 9:46 AM ET

The NBA has officially entered its business end, as the play-in tournament starts tonight. And one of the most intriguing matchups coming up will be the East Play-In Elimination game between the Miami Heat and the Charlotte Hornets. But before the stars step foot inside the court, all eyes are on the injury report for both teams.

Looking ahead to the season, the Heat front office has reportedly zeroed in on Yaxel Lendeborg as their primary draft target. Understandably so, as this season did not go as smoothly as planned. However, things can change quite rapidly as there are not many names on the injury list. Dru Smith and Nikola Jovic are on the inactive list owing to their foot and ankle issues, respectively.

Thankfully for the Heat, Andrew Wiggins (toe), Tyler Herro (foot), and Simone Fontecchio (ankle) have obtained the medical clearance ahead of the all-important play-in game. The only name that is listed as ‘questionable’ is Pelle Larsson.

HORNETS VS. HEAT IN THE PLAY-IN —

Call it right now, which team wins? pic.twitter.com/PmEYaNwgU6
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) April 13, 2026

On the contrary, the Charlotte Hornets, too, are expected to field an injury-free side. Nursing an ankle injury, PJ Hall will be out till the next season. With the likes of Kon Knueppel aiming for the Rookie of the Year honors, the Hornets will be eager to pull off an upset and progress to the next round.

Does Miami Heat Hold an Upper Hand Over Charlotte Hornets?

The Hornets have not reached the playoffs in a decade. Now, with their young core bringing significant change to the team, Charlotte is dreaming of ending the drought this year. But looking at the recent head-to-heads, the Heat has dominated them this season. Facing off four times, Miami leads 3-1.

Miles Bridges and Bam Adebayo (Photo by Imagn Images)

Now, despite LaMelo Ball and Kon Knueppel building positive momentum, the young team hasn’t faced knockout pressure yet. On the contrary, the combined experience of Bam Adebayo, Andrew Wiggins, and Tyler Herro might prove instrumental in determining the game’s winner.

Thus, as the game promises to be a banger, fans cannot wait to see what transpires.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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