As the Atlanta Hawks prepare for their December 13 matchup, the team enters the contest short-handed once again, with several key contributors unavailable and others still working through injury concerns. While Atlanta has managed to stay competitive despite rotating absences, the latest injury report signals more adjustments ahead for head coach Quin Snyder.
Caleb Houstan listed as doubtful
Two-way wing Caleb Houstan headlines the Hawks’ injury list, tagged as doubtful for tonight’s game. His status limits Atlanta’s perimeter depth, particularly on the defensive end, where Houstan’s length and off-ball mobility have been valuable in spot minutes. Unless he shows unexpected progress prior to tip-off, the Hawks will likely operate without him.
Multiple G League assignments impact rotation options
Atlanta Hawks will also be missing several young prospects due to G League assignments.
N’Faly Dante, Nikola Durieic, and Eli John Ndiaye are all unavailable as they continue developmental stints with the organization’s affiliate. While the trio is not central to Atlanta’s primary rotation, their absence limits frontcourt and bench flexibility, a factor that becomes more noticeable with injuries mounting across the roster.
Porziņģis Sidelined by Illness
Veteran big man Kristaps Porziņģis has been ruled out due to illness, removing a key floor-spacing presence and rim-protection element. His ability to stretch opposing defenses has been crucial, especially when paired alongside Atlanta’s athletic forwards. Without Porziņģis, the Hawks will rely more heavily on Onyeka Okongwu’s interior activity and Jalen Johnson’s versatility.
Jacob Toppin and Trae Young remain out
Two more names highlight the Hawks’ extended injury list:
Jacob Toppin (shoulder),
Trae Young (knee).
Young’s continued absence remains the largest obstacle for Atlanta. His scoring gravity and playmaking define the team’s offensive identity, and without him, Atlanta Hawks lean on Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Dyson Daniels to manage lead guard responsibilities.
Projected starting lineup
With several absences shaping the rotation, Atlanta is expected to open with:
Zaccharie Risacher, Jalen Johnson, Onyeka Okongwu, Dyson Daniels and Nickeil Alexander-Walker.
The reshuffled lineup continues to emphasize youth, defensive length and high-tempo execution, but overall depth challenges could test the Hawks throughout the matchup.