Hawks Sidelined: Jalen Johnson and Onyeka Okongwu to Miss Play-In Tournament due to Injuries

The Atlanta Hawks are facing a tough road ahead in the Eastern Conference play-in tournament as they will be without key players Jalen Johnson and Onyeka Okongwu due to injuries. Johnson, a standout starter for the team, sprained his right ankle and will be sidelined for at least three weeks, while Okongwu underwent a procedure for inflammation in his left big toe and will be out for at least four weeks. These injuries add to the challenges the Hawks are already facing, with guard Dejounte Murray also dealing with a right quad contusion and forward De'Andre Hunter sitting out for rest during their recent game against the Charlotte Hornets.

Despite the setbacks, All-Star point guard Trae Young made a triumphant return to the court, notching a double-double with 14 points and 11 assists in a narrow loss to the Hornets. Young's comeback from a torn ligament in his left pinkie after missing 23 games provides a glimmer of hope for the Hawks as they strive to secure their spot in the play-in tournament. With the team currently holding the No. 10 position in the Eastern Conference, they are gearing up to face the Chicago Bulls in a crucial matchup that will test their resilience and depth in the absence of key contributors like Johnson and Okongwu.