Kristaps Porzingis may make his long-awaited return to the court on Tuesday as the Atlanta Hawks take on the Miami Heat. After dealing with left Achilles tendinitis for several weeks, Porzingis has been upgraded to questionable on the injury report, offering some hope to fans and teammates alike. While his participation isn’t guaranteed, the positive update signifies progress in his recovery.
This week is pivotal for both the Hawks and Porzingis, especially with the trade deadline looming on Thursday. Porzingis, who is currently on an expiring $30.7 million contract, has been the subject of trade speculation as the team considers its options moving forward. Initially acquired from Boston to bolster the roster, Porzingis’ impact has been limited due to his inability to stay healthy, having appeared in only 17 games this season, including 12 starts.
When he has been able to play, Porzingis has shown promise, averaging 17.1 points and 5.1 rebounds per game, albeit primarily from a bench role. The Achilles injury has hindered his performance, raising concerns about his availability for the remainder of the season. The Hawks currently sit at 24-27, placing them 10th in the Eastern Conference and once again in contention for a play-in spot.
In a surprising move, Atlanta made the league’s first in-season trade by sending Trae Young to the Wizards, signaling a shift in strategy. With Onyeka Okongwu having a breakout season, the Hawks are exploring options to strengthen their lineup. The decision regarding Porzingis’ future in Atlanta remains uncertain as the trade deadline approaches, creating an atmosphere filled with anticipation and speculation. As the timeline unfolds, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the situation develops leading up to the crucial deadline.