The Atlanta Hawks are heading into their first-round playoff series against the New York Knicks without one of their key frontcourt pieces.
Center Jock Landale has been ruled out to open the postseason after sustaining a high right ankle sprain, and the team confirmed he will be re-evaluated in approximately two weeks, per New York Basketball.
Landale has already missed two weeks while dealing with the high right ankle sprain, and there is no clear timetable for his return. The Hawks confirmed in an official statement that Landale is “progressing in rehab” but will “be re-evaluated approximately two weeks” from now, with an update expected at that time.
With Game 1 tipping off April 18, a return during this series looks increasingly unlikely.
Mouhamed Gueye Could Steps Into the Role
While Landale continues to progress. In his absence, 23-year-old Mouhamed Gueye is set to operate as the primary backup center for Atlanta to open the playoffs. Gueye, who has flashed real potential this season will need to provide reliable interior defense and rebounding against a deep Knicks frontcourt.
This is a significant blow for Atlanta heading into a tough matchup. The Knicks are heavy favorites and lead the regular-season series 2-1, with all three games were close.
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