Hawks’ Porzingis Out Two Weeks with Illness, Evaluations Pending
UPDATE: Atlanta Hawks center Kristaps Porzingis will be sidelined for the next two weeks due to a recent illness, the team confirmed on November 12, 2023. This urgent development raises concerns as the Hawks prioritize his health for the remainder of the season.
Porzingis, who has already missed seven of his last nine games, will undergo further evaluations during this period. The center has a troubling history, having been diagnosed with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) last year while with the Boston Celtics. Although he managed to find solutions over the summer, this latest setback has forced him to limit his basketball activities significantly.
In a critical season, Porzingis has been a key contributor to the Hawks, averaging 19.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks across 13 games. His absence could significantly impact the team’s aspirations in the Eastern Conference playoffs. Since November 13, Porzingis has missed 10 of 14 games, raising alarms about his ongoing health.
The Hawks are already navigating challenges without star point guard Trae Young, who is recovering from a right knee MCL sprain sustained against the Brooklyn Nets on October 29. Young is expected to return to practice this week, offering some hope for the Hawks as they strive to maintain competitiveness.
As the team faces these challenges, the health and recovery of Porzingis remain paramount. The Hawks are committed to ensuring he progresses towards a full recovery, with evaluations set to take place over the next two weeks.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this situation unfolds, as the Hawks aim to solidify their position in the league while grappling with the absence of key players. The urgency to find stability and success is palpable as the season progresses.