Atlanta Hawks are facing early-season turbulence, and the latest setback comes in the form of a worrying injury to their franchise cornerstone, Trae Young. The All-Star guard suffered a right knee sprain during Wednesday’s matchup and will officially miss Friday’s NBA Cup game against the Indiana Pacers, according to the team’s announcement on X (formerly Twitter).
A disappointing start for the Hawks
Heading into the 2025 NBA season, the Hawks were expected to compete for a strong playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. However, their 2-3 start has painted a different picture. Atlanta’s only two wins have come against a struggling Orlando Magic side and the winless Brooklyn Nets, leaving fans frustrated as the team struggles to find consistency on both ends of the floor.
Now, with Young sidelined, things are about to get even more challenging. The Hawks are entering a crucial stretch of games that could define their early-season trajectory, and losing their offensive engine — even temporarily — is a major blow.
Details of the injury
Trae Young exited Wednesday’s contest after just seven minutes of play, sparking immediate concern about the severity of his knee issue. Thankfully, further evaluation revealed that it was a sprain rather than a tear, a much better outcome than initially feared.
The team’s official update stated that Young will be unavailable for the upcoming NBA Cup clash, but the injury is not considered long-term. This is a positive sign, considering knee injuries can often sideline players for extended periods.
Before the setback, Young was averaging 20.8 points and 9.5 assists per game, reaffirming his status as Atlanta’s offensive leader. Although his shooting efficiency has been inconsistent, his ability to orchestrate the offense, draw defensive pressure, and create open looks for teammates remains vital to the Hawks’ success.
What the Hawks will miss without Young
In the game prior to his injury, Trae Young showcased his playmaking brilliance, notching 17 points and 17 assists against the Chicago Bulls. His floor vision and ability to control tempo are irreplaceable assets for Atlanta, especially in clutch moments.
Without him, the Hawks will rely heavily on Dejounte Murray and Bogdan Bogdanovic to shoulder the offensive load. However, replicating Young’s unique blend of scoring and facilitation will be no easy task.