Huerter to Miss Fourth Consecutive Game After Tweaking Knee
Kevin Huerter, who has missed all three of Atlanta's preseason contests to date, will not play Wednesday night due to continued pain in his right knee.
The second-year guard tweaked the injured knee during a scrimmage on Saturday, per Robby Kalland of Uproxx, and while Huerter worked out today he will not play against the Knicks.
Huerter has practiced at various points this season but has yet to see game action and was limited during training camp. An MRI in September revealed no structural damage, but the knee has clearly been bothersome enough to keep Huerter from participating in the preseason.
The 6-foot-7 guard was an important contributor for the Hawks as a rookie, averaging nearly 9.7 points and 2.9 assists on 38.5 percent three-point shooting and earning Second-Team All-Rookie honors. He figures to be a prominent part of an offense that could take a meaningful step forward this season, and looks the part of an ideal offensive complement to Trae Young.
The Hawks are wise to be cautious with Huerter in the preseason; long-term health is rightfully the priority. Pierce said the team was aiming to get Huerter back on Monday but wanted to see how he responded to working out and practicing first.
DeAndre' Bembry has filled in nicely during Huerter's absence, and may even hold onto the starting spot early in the season as Huerter gets his rhythm back. No timetable has been given for Huerter's return, however, and the Hawks seem to be content playing the situation by ear.
