It appears Kent Bazemore will return to the Hawks lineup after a two-game absence - but not as a starter.
Coach Mike Budenholzer said Bazemore is probable for tonight’s game against the Magic when asked for his status by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution following morning shootaround.
“He’s probable and if there is a side on the higher side that probably what it is,” Budenholzer said.
However, in his pregame availability, Budenholzer said Tim Hardaway Jr. would start.
“Little bit, to ease him back in,” Budenholzer said when asked if the move was made to limit Bazemore’s minutes. “Make sure we manage his body and take care of him physically.”
Budenholzer said the move would not be long-term.
The Hawks listed Bazemore as questionable Monday following practice. Budenholzer and Bazemore both said they would wait to see how his knee responded to the workout before making a decision on his status. Bazemore had an MRI last week that showed no structural damage. He experienced pain and swelling in the knee before the decision was made to rest it for two games. Hardaway started the two games in place of Bazemore.
