Despite being eight games under .500, the Atlanta Hawks are holding firm onto the 10th spot in the Eastern Conference.
Atlanta has a three-game lead over the Brooklyn Nets and appears locked into one of the Play-In Tournament spots.
The Hawks are no strangers to the Play-In as they’ve been forced to earn a postseason spot for multiple years now, though this year was supposed to be different.
The front office went all-in on its current core when they decided to trade for Dejounte Murray, an ill-advised move considering where the franchise currently stands compared to it’s peers.
Trae Young is having another stellar season and was named an All-Star replacement, though there’s an argument to be made he should’ve made the roster to begin with.
Unfortunately for Atlanta and Young, he will miss at least the next four weeks due to a finger injury via Shams Charania of The Athletic.
“Atlanta Hawks say All-Star Trae Young will undergo surgery to repair a ligament tear in fifth finger of left hand and will be re-evaluated in four weeks,” Charania reported.
Atlanta Hawks say All-Star Trae Young will undergo surgery to repair a ligament tear in fifth finger of left hand and will be re-evaluated in four weeks. pic.twitter.com/jb5vIaZoe3
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 25, 2024
This is a blow for the Hawks who could conceivably fall in the standings while Young is out.
Young has been the engine of Atlanta’s offense because of his ability to score and facilitate, so now that burden will fall on Murray and the rest of the roster.
The star guard should be able to make it back in time for the Play-In Tournament assuming the Hawks are still in it, though everything will depend on how well his recovery goes.
NEXT: Trae Young Has Clear Response To Trade Rumors