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Hawks, Pacers Benched: Injury Crisis Hits NBA
3 Nov
Summary
- Jalen Johnson is out for the Hawks, significantly impacting their lineup.
- Pacers are severely shorthanded with multiple players sidelined.
- Both teams feature unusual starting lineups due to numerous injuries.
Tonight's matchup between the Atlanta Hawks and Indiana Pacers is heavily impacted by an unprecedented number of player absences. The Hawks will be without Jalen Johnson, along with Jock Landale, Mouhamed Gueye, and Henri Veesaar, leaving them notably short-handed in the frontcourt.
However, the Pacers are even more severely affected. Already missing Tyrese Haliburton and Ivica Zubac, Indiana has also ruled out Aaron Nesmith, Andrew Nembhard, Pascal Siakam, Obi Toppin, T.J. McConnell, and Ben Sheppard for the second night of a back-to-back. This leaves both teams with highly unusual starting rotations and significantly limited player availability for the game.
Lu Dort is expected to start for the Hawks in Johnson's absence, a role he has previously filled. With additional frontcourt players out, the Hawks may rely on Asa Newell, Zuby Ejiofor, and Dorian Finney-Smith for increased minutes. The team also faces a challenge at backup guard due to Kingston Flemings' suspension, potentially leading to more playtime for RayJ Dennis.
