20Breakdown
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11. Januar 2026
Nears double-double off bench
Kalkbrenner (elbow) accumulated 12 points (5-7 FG, 2-2 FT), nine rebounds and two blocks across 23 minutes during Saturday's 150-95 win over the Jazz.
Analyse
Kalkbrenner returned from a 10-game absence due to a sprained left elbow, chipping in double-digit points for just the third time across nine appearances (seven starts) since Dec. 1. The rookie big man led the second unit in rebounds as well, grabbing at least nine boards for the first time since Dec. 3. Kalkbrenner had started 25 of his 26 regular-season appearances entering Saturday's contest, so it will be worth monitoring his playing time and role going forward.
11. Januar 2026
Won't start in return
Kalkbrenner (elbow) won't start Saturday's game against the Jazz.
Analyse
Kalkbrenner is available to return from a 10-game absence due to a sprained left elbow, though he'll come off the bench for just the second time this season. Moussa Diabate will remain in the starting five. In his lone appearance off the bench during a loss to New York on Dec. 3, Kalkbrenner posted eight points, nine rebounds and three blocks in 25 minutes.
10. Januar 2026
Cleared to return
Kalkbrenner (elbow) is available for Saturday's game against the Jazz.
Analyse
Kalkbrenner is officially ready to return from a 10-game absence due to a sprained left elbow. The rookie center is averaging 8.7 points, 6.4 rebounds and 1.8 blocks across 25.6 minutes per game this season. He has started all but one of his 26 regular-season appearances thus far, though the Hornets could opt to deploy him off the bench, especially if he operates under a minutes restriction. Kalkbrenner's return will likely mean fewer minutes for Moussa Diabate and PJ Hall.
9. Januar 2026
Probable for Saturday
Kalkbrenner (elbow) is probable to play Saturday in Utah.
Analyse
Kalkbrenner is on track to return from a 10-game absence Saturday evening, so he'll likely have some sort of minutes restriction in his first game back. With the rookie big man expected to be back in the mix, there will be fewer minutes available for Moussa Diabate and PJ Hall. Check back for official word on Kalkbrenner's status closer to Saturday's tipoff at 9:30 p.m. ET.
8. Januar 2026
Another absence coming
Kalkbrenner (elbow) will miss Thursday's game against Indiana.
Analyse
The rookie center will be sidelined for a 10th straight game and remains without a timetable to return. He can be considered doubtful for Saturday's game against Utah.
6. Januar 2026
Remaining out vs. Toronto
Kalkbrenner (elbow) has been ruled out for Wednesday's game against the Raptors, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.
Analyse
Kalkbrenner will miss his ninth consecutive contest due to a sprained left elbow and is without a clear timetable for a return. The rookie big man should be considered doubtful for Thursday's game against the Pacers until the Hornets provide an update on his status.