Hawks gear up for Timberwolves clash as Kristaps returns, Trae Young sidelined
The Atlanta Hawks are eager to shake off the disappointments of a challenging December. However, before they can turn the page on the year, they face one last hurdle: a showdown with the formidable Minnesota Timberwolves. As the Hawks look to snap a seven-game losing streak, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Injury Report Brings Mixed News
Fortunately for Atlanta, the injury report presents some encouraging news ahead of this crucial matchup. After a stint on the sidelines, Kristaps Porzingis is set to return to action. While he was last seen in a limited role against the Denver Nuggets, his presence on the court could provide a much-needed boost for the Hawks. The question remains, though—how many minutes will he actually log in this pivotal game?
Jalen Johnson, who missed the recent contest against the Oklahoma City Thunder, is also off the injury list, a welcome development considering the Timberwolves’ size advantage. Johnson’s ability to contribute will be crucial as the Hawks prepare to meet the physicality of Minnesota.
A Shift in the Starting Lineup
In stark contrast to this positive news, the absence of Trae Young looms large over the Hawks’ game plan. Young’s playmaking and scoring prowess will be sorely missed, necessitating a change in the starting lineup. Nickeil Alexander-Walker will step into the starting role, tasked with filling the void left by the star guard.
As the teams prepare to face off, here are the projected starting lineups:
Hawks
G – Nickeil Alexander-Walker
G – Dyson Daniels
F – Zaccharie Risacher
F – Jalen Johnson
C – Onyeka Okongwu
Timberwolves
G – Donte DiVincenzo
G – Anthony Edwards
F – Jaden McDaniels
F – Julius Randle
C – Rudy Gobert
The Road Ahead
With a formidable opponent in the Timberwolves, the Hawks will need to dig deep to secure a victory. As December draws to a close, the urgency to turn things around intensifies. Can Atlanta rally together and end their losing streak against one of the top teams in the Western Conference? Only time will tell as they face off on December 29.
