Kristaps Porzingis Sidelined Again
Kristaps Porzingis, the Atlanta Hawks forward, has been sidelined again due to an illness. The Hawks confirmed on Sunday that he will remain out for at least the next two weeks, during which his condition will be closely monitored and reassessed.
Health Challenges and Previous Setbacks
Previously, Porzingis faced significant challenges as he dealt with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), leading him to miss much of the last season while he was with the Boston Celtics. This latest setback marks a continuation of troubles for the talented player, who has already been absent for six out of Atlanta’s last seven matchups due to this new health issue.
Despite his ongoing struggles, Porzingis remains a vital part of the team’s plans after joining the Hawks in the off-season with the expectation that he would complement star player Trae Young.
Current Condition and Performance
Although the team has not clarified whether this current illness is connected to his previous POTS diagnosis, Porzingis himself indicated after a recent game in Denver that he does not believe there is a link.
Statistically, the 28-year-old is averaging 19.2 points and 5.6 rebounds per game this season; however, he has only appeared in 13 games thus far. He is in the first year of a lucrative $30.7 million contract and is set to become a free agent next summer unless he and the Hawks can finalize an extension.
Impact on Team Dynamics
The Hawks had hoped Porzingis would serve as a formidable rim protector and effective partner for Young on the court. Unfortunately, injuries have limited their time together, resulting in just 51 minutes on the floor as a duo without optimal results— the team has posted a minus-13 rating during that limited playing time.
Given Porzingis’ ongoing health concerns, Atlanta is reportedly exploring trade options, including a potential deal for Anthony Davis from the Mavericks, to bolster their roster further.
