The Atlanta Hawks are set to face the Los Angeles Clippers in an away game tonight. This match marks the start of a four-game road trip for the Hawks. Their schedule includes games against the Sacramento Kings, Utah Jazz, and Phoenix Suns later in the week.
Current Team Injuries
Atlanta will continue its campaign without star guard Trae Young, who is sidelined with a right knee MCL sprain and is expected to miss multiple weeks. The Hawks faced additional injury challenges in their previous game against the Los Angeles Lakers, missing several key players:
- Trae Young (right knee MCL sprain): Out
- Jalen Johnson (right quad contusion): Available
- Kristaps Porzingis: Back
- Nickeil Alexander-Walker (low back spasm): Out
- Luke Kennard: Back
Tonight, the Hawks will have Jalen Johnson, Kristaps Porzingis, and Luke Kennard available, while Alexander-Walker will not play.
Player Rotation and Updates
With injuries to key players, it is likely that Keaton Wallace will start at point guard for the Hawks. In their last game against the Lakers, Wallace had a notable performance, driving effectively to the basket.
Team Statistics and Performance
The Hawks have displayed mixed performance stats this season. As of now, they rank as follows:
- 20th in points per game
- 15th in field goal percentage
- 19th in three-point percentage
- 15th in free throw percentage
- 19th in rebounds
- 5th in assists
- 10th in turnovers per game
Despite Trae Young’s absence, the team’s defense has shown improvement. They are ranked:
- 9th in points allowed
- 7th in field goal percentage allowed
- 4th in three-point percentage allowed
- 11th in defensive rating
Clippers Overview
The Los Angeles Clippers have also faced challenges this season. Key players like Kawhi Leonard and Bradley Beal are currently out. Their struggles are reflected in their recent performance statistics:
- 28th in points per game
- 10th in field goal percentage
- 26th in rebounds
- 21st in offensive rating
Despite their offensive issues, the Clippers still boast a solid defense, ranking 9th in points allowed and maintaining respectable metrics across the board.
As the Hawks prepare to battle the Clippers, the outcome will depend on how effectively they can manage their available roster and exploit the Clippers’ current struggles.
