Hawks provide encouraging update on rookie big man Mo Gueye

The Atlanta Hawks (22-28) suffered a 149-144 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers on February 5. 

But they got some good news the following day, providing official updates on rookie center Mouhamed Gueye and swingman Vit Krejci.

“Mouhamed Gueye (right low back stress fracture) has returned to modified practice with the College Park Skyhawks,” the team’s official release on X, formerly Twitter, read on February 6. “He is traveling with the Hawks this week to continue his rehabilitation plan. His status will be updated as appropriate.”

Originally a second-round draft pick of the Charlotte Hornets (39th overall) in 2023, the Hawks acquired Gueye – who had already been traded to the Boston Celtics – on draft night. He has logged just four minutes in two appearances with the big club this season.

Despite his injury, Gueye has been a constant and positive presence around the team.

The 6-foot-11, 210-pound big man hasn’t had a chance to showcase it during the regular season, but he could add some much-needed size and skill to the Hawks’ frontcourt in time.

Gueye might not have helped now even if he had been healthy. But Atlanta is still without starting center Clint Capela for the next week or so as he deals with an adductor injury.

They do have fourth-year big man Onyeka Okongwu in his place.

Vit Krejci also returns to practice for Hawks

Second-year man Vit Krejci joined Gueye in getting a notable update on his shoulder injury. He has not suited up for the Hawks this season. He did make 29 appearances last season, and he provides good size and energy.

“Vit Krejci (left shoulder subluxation) practiced yesterday with the College Park Skyhawks and is traveling with the Skyhawks for their games this week at Grand Rapids (Wednesday and Thursday),” the update read.

The Hawks have settled on a rotation that includes former unheralded wing Garrison Mathews, so Krejci could again be called upon to contribute in a pinch.

Atlanta will look to start another winning streak on the road against the Celtics on February 7. 

The Celtics come in sitting atop the Eastern Conference standings and boasting the NBA’s best home record. The Hawks’ road record is below average at 10-14, and they are 11-22 against teams with records above .500 on the season.

It’s a formidable test in the final game before the NBA trade deadline on February 8, with just four more games now until the All-Star break.