Things just went from bad to worse for Atlanta Hawks forward Larry Nance Jr.
Nance has already dealt with inconsistent playing time this season, the downsides of a supposedly deep Hawks roster. But just as he was starting to see more playing time, Nance suffered a hand injury against the Miami Heat on December 28.
He missed the Hawks’ win over the Toronto Raptors on December 29, and he will miss an indeterminate amount more.
“Larry Nance Jr. sustained a right hand injury during Saturday’s game vs. Miami at State Farm Arena,” the Hawks posted on X on December 30. “Imaging has confirmed a fractured fourth metacarpal bone in his right hand. He will undergo surgery on Thursday, Jan. 2 to repair the fracture. His timeline for return will be provided following surgery.”
Nance, 32, is averaging 9.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.6 assists this season.
Trae to Larry! pic.twitter.com/8gBMwe0IHf
— Atlanta Hawks (@ATLHawks) December 28, 2024
He is also averaging 1.1 steals and shooting a career-high 52% from beyond the arc, underscoring his two-way contributions.
The Hawks were fortunate to get Onyeka Okongwu back behind starter Clint Capela, easing the loss of Nance against the Raptors. But Okongwu has already missed seven games this season, including five straight before returning against Toronto.
This could also put a damper on any trade plans the Hawks may have had.
Hawks trade plans potentially on hold after Larry Nance Jr. injury update
Nance – who is in the final year of a two-year, $21.5 million contract has drawn trade interest, though the Hawks sat him instead of trading him earlier in the season. So it is unclear just how willing they would be to move on now that he has proven he can make an impact for them.
However, his absence could affect the Hawks’ rumored plans to explore their trade options for Clint Capela.
Capela is in the final year of his two-year, $46 million contract.
Capela has also been the Hawks’ most effective big man in terms of on-off differential, per Cleaning The Glass. It would be an easier decision to make if Cody Zeller was available. He has been away from the team since arriving in the trade with the New Orleans Pelicans that also brought Nance to the Hawks.
The Hawks have navigated injury issues all season long. This stretch should be no different. But it does change things and, frankly, is horrible news for Nance.
He had already said he was eager for a larger role and, now, must wait for that opportunity.