The Atlanta Hawks have released their official injury report, presented by Emory Healthcare, ahead of tomorrow’s game against the Los Angeles Clippers. The report features key updates on several players, including star point guard Trae Young and veteran center Clint Capela.
Young, who has been dealing with right Achilles tendinitis, is listed as probable for the game. The All-Star guard has been a crucial part of Atlanta’s offensive attack, and his availability will be a significant boost against a Clippers team led by Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. Young’s status suggests he is expected to play, but the team will likely monitor his minutes and workload.
Capela, meanwhile, is questionable due to family reasons. The veteran big man has been a stabilizing force in the paint for the Hawks, providing rebounding and interior defense. His potential absence would put added responsibility on Onyeka Okongwu and the rest of Atlanta’s frontcourt to contain Clippers center Ivica Zubac.
The Hawks will also be without three key players, as Kobe Bufkin (right shoulder surgery), Jalen Johnson (left shoulder surgery), and Larry Nance Jr. (right medial femoral condyle fracture) have all been ruled out. Bufkin and Johnson have been recovering from long-term injuries, while Nance Jr. continues to rehabilitate his knee injury after joining the team earlier this season.
Johnson’s absence remains particularly impactful, as the versatile forward was enjoying a breakout season before undergoing surgery. His ability to defend multiple positions and contribute offensively has been missed, and the Hawks will need strong performances from De’Andre Hunter and Saddiq Bey in his absence.
Bufkin, the promising rookie guard, has yet to return to action following shoulder surgery and remains sidelined indefinitely. Meanwhile, Nance Jr., known for his defensive versatility and rebounding, is still working his way back from his injury, with no clear timetable for his return.
Atlanta enters this matchup looking to gain ground in the Eastern Conference playoff race, while the Clippers continue to push for a higher seed in the West. The availability of Young and Capela could play a crucial role in the Hawks’ ability to compete against a deep and talented Clippers squad.
The team will provide further updates on any late changes before tip-off. As of now, Atlanta will prepare to face Los Angeles with a shorthanded roster but remains hopeful that Young will be ready to lead the charge.