What happened: The Atlanta Hawks designated rookie guard Kingston Flemings questionable for Friday's game in Chicago due to a lumbar spasm. Keshon Gilbert remains sidelined following a non-surgical procedure for left knee inflammation, while Mouhamed Gueye is out after undergoing surgery for a fractured left foot. Forward Asa Newell was also ruled out with a left toe injury.
Why it matters: Atlanta enters the matchup at 7-5 through 12 games in 2026-27, holding fourth place in the Eastern Conference following a 124-114 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers. The mounting frontcourt and backcourt absences test roster depth as the club opens a three-game road stretch. Flemings has provided steady rotation production during his debut campaign, logging regular minutes as a secondary playmaker.
By the numbers: • Kingston Flemings: 8.5 PPG, 4.4 APG, 2.6 RPG in 2026-27 through 11 games • Asa Newell: 3.6 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 1.0 APG in 2026-27 through 5 games • Atlanta Hawks: 7-5 record in 2026-27 through 12 games (4th in Eastern Conference)
What to watch: Atlanta visits Chicago on Friday night to begin its three-game road trip. Final lineup designations will be confirmed ahead of tip-off.