The Atlanta Hawks have been dealt a significant blow with the loss of forwards Larry Nance Jr. and Vit Krejci, who will be sidelined for several weeks due to injuries sustained during their latest game. Nance, 32, exited the game against the Orlando Magic with a right knee injury, while Krejci, 24, suffered a lower back contusion following a dunk. These injuries occurred in quick succession, with Nance leaving the court with 8:01 remaining and Krejci being knocked to the floor just 18 seconds later.
Krejci was promptly taken to the Emory Sports Medical Complex in the Atlanta area for thorough evaluation and imaging. The results revealed a non-displaced fracture of his right medial femoral condyle. Further imaging confirmed a non-displaced lumbar fracture, necessitating a break from the court. Krejci is expected to be re-evaluated in three to four weeks.
Meanwhile, Nance's injury will also require careful monitoring. He will be re-evaluated in approximately six weeks, marking a substantial absence for the Hawks. Prior to his injury, Nance contributed eight points and three rebounds in 19 minutes during Atlanta's victory over the Magic. This season, he has been averaging 8.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.6 assists in 24 games, including three starts.
Krejci, who has made 15 starts in 39 games this season, is averaging 6.9 points and 2.7 rebounds in 20.8 minutes of play. His absence will be keenly felt given his emerging role within the team.
Nance's career began when he was selected by the Los Angeles Lakers with the 27th overall pick of the 2015 NBA Draft out of Wyoming. Since then, he has become a vital player for the Hawks, known for his defensive prowess and ability to contribute on both ends of the court.
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