Hawks issue injury update on Kris Dunn, De’Andre Hunter, Rajon Rondo

Injuries have been a continuing issue for the Atlanta Hawks during the 2020-21 season. High-profile free agent acquisition Bogdan Bogdanovic remains sidelined and, with De’Andre Hunter and Rajon Rondo suffering recent injuries, Atlanta’s rotation continues to operate in short-handed fashion. On Wednesday, the Hawks announced the latest progress of three players, updating the status of Hunter, Rondo and Kris Dunn.

Dunn underwent an MRI earlier this week and, following the results, the veteran guard underwent a PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injection to address right knee discomfort. Following a two-day rest period, the Hawks say he will continue his return-to-play rehabilitation plan from his right ankle surgery, though no timeline is available for his projected return to the floor.

After signing a two-year deal that includes a player option, Dunn has not appeared in a game this season. He was recovering from a right knee issue when he signed with the Hawks, though the ankle issue arose during the 2020-21 season.

After his right knee procedure on Feb. 8, Hunter “has progressed to weight-bearing lower limb strength activities, form shooting and ball handling.” During a Feb. 9 radio appearance with 92.9 The Game in Atlanta, Hawks president of basketball operations indicated Hunter could face a 7-to-10 week timeline to return, though the team simply indicated that he will be reviewed again in two weeks following Wednesday’s release.

Hunter’s absence is unfortunate for the Hawks, and he was experiencing a full-fledged breakout in his second season. The former No. 4 overall pick is a critical piece of Atlanta’s present and future, and the Hawks won’t be able to operate at their peak until his return.

Rondo (low back pain) completed light shooting drills on Tuesday and “will progress to running drills” on Wednesday. There is no stated timeline for his return.

In Rondo’s stead, the Hawks have used both Skylar Mays and Brandon Goodwin at backup point guard. Rondo has struggled in 2020-21 after signing a lucrative two-year deal, though the Hawks have been consistent in lauding his off-court impact.

Stay tuned.