The Atlanta Hawks received promising news as they officially cleared their star player, Trae Young, to return to practice on Monday. This development comes approximately six weeks after Young underwent surgery to repair a torn ligament in his left hand. While the exact timing of his return to gameplay remains uncertain, the announcement coincides with the NBA’s forthcoming play-in tournament, set to commence in about a week.
Young sustained the injury to his left hand during a game against the Toronto Raptors in February. Subsequent medical evaluation revealed a torn ligament in his pinkie finger, prompting prompt surgical intervention. Initially projected to be sidelined for at least four weeks, Young’s recovery progress has now reached the stage where he can resume practicing with the team.
Throughout the season, Young has been a pivotal force for the Hawks, averaging a team-leading 26.4 points and 10.8 assists per game across 51 appearances. Despite his injury hiatus, Young was recognized with his third All-Star selection this season, filling in as an injury replacement.
During Young’s absence, the Hawks managed a 12-10 record over the past six weeks leading up to their upcoming clash against the Miami Heat. Currently boasting a 36-42 record, the Hawks have already secured a playoff berth. However, they find themselves in the tenth spot within the Eastern Conference standings. Consequently, they are slated to face the Bulls in the play-in tournament next week in Chicago, trailing the ninth-place team by just a single game.
With only four games remaining in the regular season, the Hawks remain within striking distance of surpassing the Bulls in the standings, particularly if Young makes his comeback in the final stretch. However, if his return is delayed until the play-in tournament, the Hawks may face a formidable challenge in securing a playoff spot in the competitive Eastern Conference.
