NBA: Korver Out

A MRI on Saturday revealed that Atlanta Hawks shooting guard Kyle Korver will miss the rest of the postseason due to a severe ankle sprain. The injury occurred in the 3rd Quarter of Friday night’s loss to the Cavaliers. The timing couldn’t be any worse for the Hawks who are down 0-2 to the Cavaliers, the series shifting to Cleveland.

Korver who was a second round draft pick in 2003 was a first time All-Star this past season had his best season to date. He lead the league in true shooting percentage and shot over 50 percent behind the arc. This postseason In 14 games he averaged 11 points, 5.0 rebounds and 2.4 assists in 37.6 minutes per game. He’s a spot up shooter that usually needs screens to get his shot but has a quick release that makes him really effective.

This is what Hawks head coach Mike Budenholzer had to say about the injury.

“Obviously, it’s very, very unfortunate for Kyle, He’s such a big part of what we do. But there will be other people who will get opportunities. We expect to compete and get after it tomorrow in Game 3. I don’t think anybody is going to feel sorry for us.”

So what options do Coach Budenholzer have to fill in for Korver? Many think it can come down to Kent Bazemore, Shelvin Mack or even Dennis Schroeder. Bazemore usually subs in for Korver and seems to be the more logical choice here as he has played the mos with the starters. Its going to be a uphill battle for the Hawks and its not going to be easy but expect them to come out and fight in game 3 as they look to get back in the series.

Game 3 is Sunday night at 8:30 pm EDT and it will be broadcasted on TNT.