Kristaps Porzingis could play in his first game since Jan. 7 when the Hawks play the Heat on Tuesday. Porzingis was upgraded on Atlanta’s injury report to questionable as he’s been dealing with left Achilles tendinitis over the past several weeks. He’s not guaranteed to play Tuesday, but the upgrade in injury designation is positive news.
It’s a big week for the Hawks and Porzingis with Thursday’s looming trade deadline. Porzingis has been in trade rumors because he’s on an expiring $30.7 million contract. While the Hawks hoped Porzingis could be a contributor after trading for him from Boston, the big man hasn’t been healthy enough to consistently play.
Porzingis has played in just 17 games (12 starts) this season due to illness and injuries. This Achilles issue has slowed him down in recent games. When Porzingis has been healthy recently, it’s been in a bench role. He’s been solid when he does play, averaging 17.1 points and 5.1 rebounds per game, but he hasn’t been healthy.
The Hawks are 24-27, good for 10th in the East. They’re once again in play-in contention, which has been their consistent reality in recent years. Atlanta made the league’s first in-season trade, sending Trae Young to the Wizards in what was effectively a salary dump.
It remains to be seen what the Hawks do and if Porzingis remains in Atlanta beyond the deadline. Onyeka Okongwu has enjoyed a breakout season for the Hawks, plus the Hawks haven’t been able to depend on Porzingis throughout the season. The deadline is set for 3 p.m. Thursday.