Atlanta Hawks owner Bogdan Bogdanovic will be left out indefinitely after suffering a knee fracture, the team announced on Sunday. After an MRI scan, he was officially diagnosed with “an avulsion fracture and associated soft tissue inflammation and a bone contusion”. The Hawks said a timetable for Bogdanovic’s recovery would be announced later this week.
Bogdanovic was injured Saturday night during the Hawks’ defeat by the Hornets. In the middle of the second half, he climbed the floor and tried to avoid LaMelo Ball, who was trying to steal. When Bogdanovic changed direction, he was knocked over by the rookie and accidentally cut his own heel, which caused him to lose his balance. He fell awkwardly onto his right leg, which folded under him and threw him on the floor.
Here is a video of the injury, which is not pleasant to see:
Bogdanovic had to be helped to the locker room and did not return to the game. At this point, we still don’t know exactly how much time he will waste, but it is clear that this will be a long-term absence.
After a hectic off-season in which he almost traded with the Milwaukee Bucks, Bogdanovic signed a four-year, $ 72 million contract with the Hawks at a free agency. It was part of a major Atlanta makeover, which also brought Danilo Gallinari, Rajon Rondo and Kris Dunn. Unfortunately, Dunn, Bogdanovic and Gallinari suffered injuries. Dunn did not play due to ankle surgery, while Gallinari has only played one game this season and is currently out on the pitch due to a sprained ankle.
Although they started off very well, the Hawks have struggled lately, losing their last four games and dropping to 4-4 this season. They also did not face the elite competition exactly, losing to the Cavaliers, Knicks and Hornets (twice). If Bogdanovic is out for a while, it will be even more difficult for Trae Young and Co. Known for their powerful offensive attack, the Hawks have a bad offensive score of 101 during their four-game losing streak, which is the third worst in the league during this period.
If that wasn’t enough, there was also some drama off the court. John Collins reportedly criticized Young during a contentious film session and was supported by several teammates. Players also complained about coach Lloyd Pierce, questioning his decision making during the game.
That said, it’s clear that things are not going as planned in Atlanta this season. They had hopes of reaching the playoff, but between injuries and internal conflicts, this task will be much more difficult than anticipated.