Anthony Farris
Get ready for the Kevin Huerter – Khris Middleton show in Milwaukee. Hours after learning that Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo would miss the pivotal fifth game of the Eastern Conference finals, news broke that Hawks guard Trae Young would also sit out Thursday night’s game as he continues to recover from a bone bruise.
ESPN Sources with @malika_andrews: Atlanta Hawks star Trae Young (foot) is out for Game 5 vs. Bucks tonight. Young will continue to rehab with hopes of playing in the Eastern Conference Finals Game 6 on Saturday in Atlanta.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2021
With the series currently tied at two games a piece, Young is set to miss his second consecutive game after injuring his right foot early in Game Three. As both teams enter the game without their superstars, second options Kevin Huerter of Atlanta and Khris Middleton of Milwaukee will be expected to take on bigger roles. If past performance is any indication, both should be up to the challenge.
#Giannis officially ruled out for Game 5 but don't expect him back for this series or Finals if @Bucks advance. ICYMI, this was written/posted during game 4. https://t.co/Z57QBgCzsn
— David J. Chao – ProFootballDoc (@ProFootballDoc) July 1, 2021
Middleton’s averaging 21 points, 6 assists and nearly 8 rebounds in the series’ first four games. And though Huerter has contributed just 12 points a game, he’s proven to be a legit threat from beyond the three point line this post season. Franchise cornerstones Young and Antetokounmpo had combined to average 60 points per night during the series.
Fortunately, Young was at least able to hoist some shots prior to Game 5, leading many to believe a Game 6 return is likely.
Trae Young warming up ahead of Game 5 👀 ⁰⁰Ice Trae is rocking his ‘96 Atlanta Olympics-inspired Adidas Trae Young 1 shoes. @brkicks pic.twitter.com/B4WZphGtIe
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) July 1, 2021
With both stars sidelined, FanDuel currently lists the visiting Hawks as 4.5 point underdogs.
