Trae Young doubtful for exhibition game, but aims to be ‘ready for Game 1′

Miami Heat guard Kyle Lowry (7) defends against Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (11) during the first half of a preseason NBA basketball game, Monday, Oct. 4, 2021, in Miami. (AP Photo/Marta Lavandier)

Credit: Marta Lavandier

Credit: Marta Lavandier

Miami Heat guard Kyle Lowry (7) defends against Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (11) during the first half of a preseason NBA basketball game, Monday, Oct. 4, 2021, in Miami. (AP Photo/Marta Lavandier)

As he heals from a right quad contusion suffered in Monday’s exhibition opener, Trae Young is listed as doubtful for the Hawks’ second exhibition game Wednesday, a home game vs. the Cavaliers.

Young did not participate in Tuesday’s practice, but said that he’ll be “fine when games matter,” meaning the regular season, adding that he’s still experiencing some soreness and swelling. After getting tangled up with Gabe Vincent in Monday’s loss to Miami and taking a hit to the leg, Young has been staying off it, icing it, and receiving treatment. The Hawks will be cautious with Young, coach Nate McMillan said, especially given it’s just the preseason.

Young’s mind-set is to be ready for the regular season, since exhibition games don’t count, at the end of the day. They’re mostly meant to help teams prepare and evaluate where they stand.

“I think that’s what everybody here, especially the guys that are going through a little bit of pain, with little injuries, it’s really just to be ready for Game 1,” Young said. “That’s the most important thing.”