In a significant setback for the Atlanta Hawks, the team announced that rookie guard Kobe Bufkin will undergo season-ending surgery on his right shoulder. The promising 15th overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft had his debut campaign cut short due to recurring shoulder issues.
Shoulder woes sideline Bufkin
Bufkin, who shined at Michigan before entering the draft, partially dislocated his right shoulder twice this year. The 20-year-old initially injured it during summer league, causing him to miss games. He aggravated it again in October, adding to a list of maladies that included a thumb fracture and big toe sprain.
The surgery to address “right shoulder instability” is scheduled for Jan. 7.
– Atlanta Hawks
Promising rookie season derailed
When healthy, Bufkin flashed the scoring ability and athleticism that made him a lottery pick. In 17 total appearances, he posted averages of:
- 5.3 points
- 2.1 rebounds
- 1.7 assists
However, the recurring injuries prevented him from gaining traction and carving out a consistent role in the Hawks rotation. Now facing a lengthy rehab, Bufkin will look to come back at full strength for his sophomore season.
Long road to recovery
Shoulder surgeries for basketball players are often complicated, with a wide range of recovery timelines. Bufkin and the Hawks medical staff will hope for a best-case scenario that has the talented young guard ready to go for the start of the 2025-26 campaign.
In the meantime, Atlanta will have to proceed without a player they hoped would develop into a key contributor this season. The Hawks aim to return to the playoffs after last year’s promising run, but will have to do so without their 2023 first round selection.
Opportunity for other young Hawks
With Bufkin sidelined, look for other young Hawks guards to seize the chance for increased playing time. Sharife Cooper and Tyrese Martin, both entering their second seasons, should see extra minutes in the backcourt rotation.
The Hawks are also hoping for a leap from 2022 first rounder AJ Griffin, who earned All-Rookie honors last season. The Duke product has the size and shooting touch to play multiple positions on the wing.
Crucial development year on hold
Ultimately, Bufkin’s lost rookie year delays his progress and the Hawks’ assessment of their 2023 draft prize. The 6’4″ combo guard showed encouraging flashes when healthy, but couldn’t stay on the court long enough to achieve sustainable growth.
If his rehab goes smoothly, Bufkin will have a full offseason to work his way back for a pivotal second year. Still just 20 years old, time is on his side to develop into the dynamic scorer many projected when the Hawks selected him in the middle of the first round.
For now, both player and team will proceed with understandable caution as Bufkin goes under the knife to repair his ailing shoulder. The hope is that surgery and diligent rehabilitation will allow the talented young guard to put his injury woes behind him and get his promising career back on track.
