Atlanta Hawks update Kristaps Porzingis’ playing status for tonight’s game vs. Orlando

After a dismal opening night performance against the Raptors, the Atlanta Hawks will look to right the ship tonight on the road against Orlando. Although it’s only an early season matchup, it’s a chance to see two teams who should be among the best in the East face off for the first time this season.

Atlanta will do it without starting center Kristaps Porzingis tonight. Although not listed on the initial injury report, the Hawks just announced that Porzingis will miss tonight’s game against the Magic due to flu-like symptoms. Forward Zaccharie Risacher is still doubtful due to a sprained right ankle,

While not having Porzingis will hurt the Hawks when it comes to shooting and having a big man on the floor, they have one of the best center situations in the NBA. Onyeka Okongwu is a starter-level center and should be able to play major minutes tonight.

Who could see the minutes tonight with his absence? Sure, Okongwu will start, but one or both of Mouhamed Gueye or N’Faly Dante should see playing time.

Our own Rohan Raman broke down tonight’s match:

“Even though it’s only one game, the Hawks offense didn’t get off to a good start. They finished 16th in scoring, 26th in FG%, 23rd in 3P%, 4th in FT%, 27th in rebounds (23rd for OREB), 11th in assists and 15th in turnovers per game. They didn’t been able to shoot efficiently or accumulate points on a large volume of. Better nights will come if Trae Young is behind the wheel, but the offense hasn’t started strong.

This is especially concerning because their defense doesn’t appear to be much improved. Per game, Atlanta finished 27th in points allowed, 28th in FG% allowed, 28th in 3P% allowed, 27th in rebounds allowed, 18th in steals, and 8th in blocks. These numbers are still subject to extreme fluctuations due to the start of the season. However, it is disappointing that the Hawks entered the season with hopes of improving their defense and the quality looking much like previous seasons.

Orlando’s offense needed to improve after making a big trade for Desmond Bane and the early returns are certainly an improvement. They rank 8th in points per game, 14th in FG%, 8th in 3P%, 7th in FT%, 13th in rebounds (19th in OREB), 15th in assists and 11th in turnovers per game. If they can stay in this range for an entire season, they will be legitimate contenders for a conference finals appearance.

Their defense is still good on paper and produces a lot of stock, but its stats aren’t as impressive as last season. They are 18th in points allowed, 19th in FG% allowed, 13th in 3P% allowed, 19th in rebounds allowed, 11th in steals and 6th in blocks. Even so, Orlando’s defense should still be excellent and the return of Jalen Suggs to the lineup will only make them a more formidable unit. »