The Atlanta Hawks face the Washington Wizards on Tuesday hoping to pick up their 29th win of the season. Unfortunately, star forward Jalen Johnson is said to have suffered a hip injury during the contest.
According to NBA insider Brett Siegel, reports indicate that Johnson, who is 24, suffered a left hip strain during the game. The Hawks listed him as questionable to return.
"Hawks say Jalen Johnson has a left hip flexor injury and is questionable to return against the Wizards."
The injury occurred during the first six minutes of the game against the Wizards. Jalen Johnson left the court after recording five points, three rebounds and two steals on 50.0% shooting from the floor. According to Siegel, after a quick trip to the locker room, Atlanta ruled Johnson out for the remainder of the game.
"Jalen Johnson will not return to tonight's game due to his hip injury."
Hopefully, it's not a serious injury and Johnson can return soon. He has emerged as one of the go-to stars for the Hawks, as he entered Tuesday's contest averaging 23.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, 8.1 assists and 1.3 steals per game, while shooting 49.4% from the floor and 34.3% from beyond the three-point line. He earned an All-Star award this season for the first time in his career.
Newly hired forward Jonahn Kuminga may get some additional playing time alongside Jalen Johnson against the Wizards. Zachary Rishachar may also see an expanded role. Either way, these are the two players most likely to step up for the Hawks if Johnson misses time with a hip injury.
