:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/29049171/20140125_ajl_sh5_343.0.jpg)
As injuries continue to mount, it looks like the Hawks are moving a bit closer to getting one of their injured centers back. Gustavo Ayon told the AJC that he hopes to return to action on Monday.
Gustavo Ayon said he has the same right shoulder injury suffered at the start of the season. Trying for Monday return. #ATLHawks
— Chris Vivlamore (@ajchawks) February 22, 2014
The Hawks don't play on Monday so presumedly he is talking about practice. That doesn't necessarily mean he would be ready for Tuesday night's game against Chicago but Atlanta needs him back as soon as possible.
Atlanta's lack of depth at the center position forced Elton Brand into 43 minutes in Saturday's win over the Knicks. Brand has been solid with the added workload, particularly on the defensive end of the floor, but its not a good idea to lean on him that heavily at this stage of his career.
Atlanta signed Dexter Pittman to a 10-day contract out of the D-League on Saturday to add depth. With a couple of days of practice he could figure into the gameplan against the Bulls.