Hawks coach Nate McMillan said power forward John Collins is seeking a second opinion on his foot and finger injuries, according to Sarah K. Spencer of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (Twitter link). McMillan added that it’s still up in the air as to whether Collins will miss extended time with the injuries.
“We really don’t know. He’s going to get checked out and get more information for himself as well as for the organization and we’ll see what happens when we get that information,” McMillan said, per Spencer (via Twitter).
Through 54 appearances this season, Collins is averaging 16.2 points, 7.8 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game on .526/.364/.793 shooting. However, he struggled mightily after returning following a seven-game absence due to the right foot strain, averaging just 9.3 points and 6.3 rebounds on .359/.125/.778 shooting in four games (24.7 minutes).
Collins has missed three straight games and 10 of the last 14 for Atlanta. The right finger injury is a more recent development, incurred during the brief four-game return.
Collins played an important role in helping Atlanta reach last year’s Eastern Conference finals, but the team has been very inconsistent this season. The Hawks are currently 34-35, 10th in the East. They trail the Hornets by a half-game for the ninth seed.
Kind of a sorry season for Atlanta. The org wanted a playoff run and they got it last season, said theyd spend spend spend. Well they got it and a year later they’re right back at the bottom. Have to wonder what the plan is long term…
JC just needs to sit out until healthy… clearly playing injured isn’t working for him or ATL!
As the saying goes even if you are at 95% physically you are 100% not fully fit!
Take a rest, recover & come back whenever that is!