Millsap out three more games with left knee synovitis (updated)

Millsap will be re-evaluated following the three missed games – versus the Suns Tuesday, at the 76ers Wednesday and at the Bulls Saturday. His status will be updated as appropriate, according to the team.

Millsap has missed the past five games with what the team called left knee tightness. There has been continued swelling that caused the four-time all-star to miss significant time. Hawks coach Mike Budenholzer said Sunday that Millsap had an MRI exam and that the test showed no structural damage.

The Hawks have nine games remaining in the regular season and are locked in a battle for a playoff berth and position. They are currently 37-36 and have lost seven straight games. They are currently fifth in the Eastern Conference with the same record as the Bucks and Pacers but currently own the tiebreakers.

The Hawks have lost all five games of late without Millsap and are 0-8 in games without him this season. He missed three games earlier this season with a left hip injury. Millsap is the Hawks’ leading scorer and is second in rebounds, assists and steals.

Synovitis is an inflammation and fluid buildup in joints such as knees and ankles. Hawks guard/forward Mike Dunleavy recently missed 13 games with right ankle synovitis.

Millsap had issues with his right knee before the season. He underwent a non-surgical preventative procedure to reduce swelling in his right knee and missed most of training camp in September. Millsap experienced swelling in workouts prior to camp before the decision to seek treatment.

The latest knee injury became an issue before the Hawks hosted the Trail Blazers on March 18. He was a late scratch from the lineup and has not played since.

Millsap, 32, is expected to opt out of his player option for next season and become an unrestricted free agent this summer.