The Atlanta Hawks will be without forwards Jalen Johnson and Lu Dort for their second NBA preseason game against the San Antonio Spurs. This news comes as the team looks to build on a 123-116 preseason win over the Spurs just two days ago on October 8. Head coach Quin Snyder confirmed the absences, which also include two-way guard Keshon Gilbert and long-term absentees Mouhamed Gueye and Henri Veesaar.
Jalen Johnson is sitting for rest after a busy start to the preseason. Lu Dort, the team's major offseason acquisition, will miss his second straight game with a right knee contusion. He has yet to make his Hawks debut. Keshon Gilbert is sidelined with left patella tendinitis. None of the injuries are considered serious, but Dort's continued absence delays his integration with the new squad. His next chance to play is Saturday.
With Johnson resting, rookie Asa Newell is expected to get the start at power forward. The Hawks' 2025 first-round pick posted a double-double of 12 points and 12 rebounds in the preseason opener against the Memphis Grizzlies on October 5, a 132-123 loss. His defense was shaky early but improved against second-unit players. CJ McCollum, who missed that first game, is set to return to the starting lineup tonight.
Coach Snyder's projected starting five features McCollum and Nickeil Alexander-Walker in the backcourt. Dyson Daniels and Asa Newell will start at the forward spots, with Onyeka Okongwu at center. The bench rotation should see significant minutes for Kingston Flemings, Aaron Wiggins, and Corey Kispert. Veterans like Dorian Finney-Smith and Jock Landale will provide frontcourt depth.
This preseason game offers a key opportunity for Newell and other young players to earn rotation minutes. The Hawks' front office will be watching closely as final roster decisions loom.
The preseason schedule moves quickly for Atlanta. Immediately after facing the Spurs, the team travels for a road game against the Indiana Pacers on October 10. That contest will be another test for the Hawks' depth and conditioning. The coaching staff will likely continue to experiment with lineups and player combinations.
These exhibition games are about evaluating talent and building chemistry. The return of McCollum is a positive step for the starting unit's rhythm. All eyes will remain on Dort's knee, as getting him on the court before the regular season tips off is a clear priority for the Hawks' defensive planning.
