Clint Capela, the 30-year-old center for the Atlanta Hawks, broke a bone in his left hand. As a result, he’s likely to be out for the remainder of the regular season. An MRI scan then revealed a full thickness ligament injury to the fourth metacarpal. Out of surgery, you’ll require a recovery time of three to four weeks. This disappointing news comes as the Hawks ready themselves for their last regular-season game in Orlando on April 13.
Capela actually lost his starting job to Onyeka Okongwu in mid-January. Even after losing that battle, he’s still been an immensely valuable piece to the Hawks this season. In those 55 games, he made 41 starts. On the whole, he averaged 8.9 points and 8.5 rebounds per game during his final season. Capela, who’s accustomed himself to his new found starting role nicely. His remarkable run continues, as he has scored in double figures for eight consecutive seasons. He’s a bit of a workhorse down low, averaging 12 points and 10.5 rebounds over his career.
At present, the Hawks are in seventh place in the Eastern Conference. Even with the loss of Murray, they’re primed to lock in a play-in tournament berth. Capela's absence will undoubtedly impact the team's dynamics as they navigate the remaining games without him. The team’s medical staff will re-evaluate him in three weeks. They may be optimistic for a speedy rehab that could allow him back just in time to join the team for playoff action.
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