The Atlanta Hawks have had their fair share of injury setbacks this season, and the situation just got worse.
Already missing Trae Young (Achilles), Jalen Johnson, and Kobe Bufkin (season-ending shoulder injuries), the Hawks received devastating news about two more key rotation players:
✔ Vit Krejci (Lower Back Contusion, Lumbar Fracture) – Out at least 3-4 weeks
✔ Larry Nance Jr. (Right Knee Fracture) – Out at least 6 weeks
This latest development further thins Atlanta’s already struggling roster, forcing even more reliance on a depleted rotation as the team fights for playoff positioning.
How These Injuries Impact the Hawks’ Rotation
1️⃣ Krejci’s Shooting & Versatility Will Be Missed
Before his injury, Krejci was playing a key role for Atlanta, providing floor spacing (38.7% 3PT on 3.4 attempts per game) and flexibility at both the SG and SF spots.
🔹 Impact of His Absence:
❌ Less shooting depth for a team already struggling from three
❌ One fewer reliable rotation piece
❌ More pressure on Caris LeVert & Terence Mann to step up
2️⃣ Nance’s Injury Creates Depth Issues at Center
With Nance out for at least six weeks, Atlanta’s frontcourt rotation becomes even more fragile.
🔹 Who Steps Up in His Absence?
✔ Onyeka Okongwu & Clint Capela must stay healthy
✔ Mo Gueye will likely see increased minutes
✔ Georges Niang may need to play bigger lineups alongside Capela
If Okongwu or Capela were to miss time, the Hawks could be in serious trouble inside.
Can the Hawks Survive This Injury Crisis?
Despite the injury wave, Atlanta has stayed competitive, winning key games behind strong bench performances.
🔹 Recent Game Example:
✔ Bench scored 54 points in win vs. Magic
✔ Mann & LeVert stepped up late in the clutch
With Nance out for a significant stretch, his potential return could coincide with Atlanta’s final playoff push, but the Hawks must stay afloat in the meantime.