Hawks Battle Injuries Ahead of Key Play-In Tournament

ATLANTA, April 13, 2025 — The Atlanta Hawks are gearing up for their final regular-season game against the Orlando Magic, but injuries are casting a cloud over their preparations. The Hawks will be without forward Georges Niang, who has been given rest for the game scheduled for Sunday afternoon at State Farm Arena.

Niang has played 28 games this season, contributing an average of 12.1 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game. His absence puts added pressure on Mouhamed Gueye, who is likely to see increased playing time as he averages 6.1 points and 4.2 rebounds this season.

“The game doesn’t impact our playoff position, so we want to ensure our guys are ready for Tuesday,” said Hawks head coach Nate McMillan. “We’re focused on managing their health for the Play-In Tournament.”

The Hawks have also listed several key players as questionable for the game, including star guard Trae Young due to right Achilles tendinitis, alongside Dyson Daniels (rest), Caris LeVert (right knee injury management), Onyeka Okongwu (left knee injury management), and Clint Capela (left hand sprain).

Despite the challenges, the Hawks have clinched the No. 8 seed in the Eastern Conference. They secured this position after a strong performance against the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday, allowing them to shift their focus to the impending playoff showdown. “We need to take this as an opportunity to refine our strategy and get healthier,” added McMillan.

With the Magic currently holding the No. 7 seed, both teams will meet again in the Play-In Tournament on Tuesday, where the stakes will be much higher. The winner will advance to face the defending champion Boston Celtics in the first round of the playoffs.

The Magic are contending with injuries of their own, including star players Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero, both listed as questionable. “We’re in a similar situation,” observed Magic coach Jamahl Mosley. “Managing our lineup now is crucial, especially with a big game coming up.”

Sunday’s contest may ultimately serve as a tune-up for reserves, with both teams possibly opting to rest their primary players ahead of the Play-In Tournament, scheduled for Tuesday night at 7 p.m. ET. Fans can expect to see the confirmed lineups closer to tip-off.

Interim reports indicate fans should remain focused on Trae Young’s availability as the Hawks prepare for their playoff push, underscoring how crucial he is to their plans. With the prospect of the postseason around the corner, both teams will prioritize recovery while gearing up for the showdown.