2 min read • April 17, 2022
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John Collins, the Hawks versatile power forward, will make his return from right ring finger and right foot injuries to play in Game 1 against the Heat.
The 24-year-old has been dealing with a partially torn plantar fascia since Feb. 11 and a severe finger sprain since March 7.
He initially attempted to play through both, but has not taken the court since March 11.
The ProBasketballDocs do not believe he is anywhere close to 100% and would not be playing if this were a regular season contest.
Collins carries a Sports Injury Central health score of 55, meaning he will likely struggle to reach half of his usual stats.
He averaged 16.2 points and 7.8 rebounds in 54 games during the regular season, but not have his usual mobility or shooting ability because of the injuries.
The fifth-year forward is likely only taking the court because of Clint Capela's recent knee injury. Capela is definitely out the first round and has a slim chance to return late in the postseason.
That's an issue for a Hawks team who relied heavily on Capela to provide a majority of their interior defense.
Second-year center Onyeka Okongwu filled in well against the Cavaliers, but now likely gets the assignment of guarding Bam Adebayo.
The Heat are 7-point favorites in Game 1 and the over/under is 220.5, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.
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