17Breakdown
Performance
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February 25, 2026
Moves to bench
Kalkbrenner will move to the bench Tuesday against the Bulls.
Analysis
This is an expected move with Moussa Diabate and Miles Bridges back from their suspensions. Kalkbrenner is likely to maintain a sizable role with the second unit, to be clear.
February 24, 2026
Upgraded to available
Kalkbrenner (ankle) is available for Tuesday's game against the Bulls.
Analysis
A sprained left ankle won't stop Kalkbrenner from playing Tuesday, but the expectation is that the returning Moussa Diabate (suspension) is going to replace Kalkbrenner in the starting lineup. Kalkbrenner has started four consecutive games, averaging 8.8 points, 8.0 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 1.8 blocks in 26.3 minutes per contest.
February 23, 2026
Probable with ankle sprain
Kalkbrenner is probable for Tuesday's game against the Bulls with a sprained left ankle.
Analysis
The rookie big man picked up the issue in Sunday's game against the Wizards, but it appears to be of minimal concern. Moussa Diabate is set to return from suspension Tuesday, which is likely to send Kalkbrenner to the bench. Kalkbrenner has started four straight games, averaging 8.8 points, 8.0 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 1.8 blocks in 26.3 minutes per tilt.
February 23, 2026
Available to return
Kalkbrenner (ankle) is available to return to Sunday's game against the Wizards.
Analysis
Kalkbrenner sustained a left ankle sprain during the third quarter of Sunday's contest, but the team announced that he is available to return to the game. With the Hornets sporting a large lead, it remains to be seen whether he returns to action or not.
February 23, 2026
Heads to locker room Sunday
Kalkbrenner went back to the locker room during Sunday's game against the Wizards with an apparent ankle injury, Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer reports.
Analysis
Kalkbrenner appeared to roll his ankle before heading to the locker room during the third quarter of Sunday's contest. If he is unable to return, PJ Hall and Xavier Tillman could see extra minutes.
February 21, 2026
Double-doubles vs. Cleveland
Kalkbrenner registered 12 points (5-7 FG, 2-2 FT), 13 rebounds, one assist and one block over 36 minutes during the Hornets' 118-113 loss to the Cavaliers on Friday.
Analysis
The rookie second-rounder finished as the Hornets' leading rebounder (including a career-high nine offensive boards) en route to the third double-double of the season (and first since Nov. 3 against the Pelicans). Kalkbrenner has started in each of the Hornets' last three games and should serve in that role against the Wizards on Sunday, though he'll likely revert to a bench role against the Bulls on Tuesday since Moussa Diabate will have served his four-game suspension.
