Published on Mar. 3, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Atlanta Hawks could be shorthanded for their upcoming game against the Portland Trail Blazers, as two of their starters – Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Jalen Johnson – are listed as questionable due to injuries. Alexander-Walker is dealing with a left foot sprain, while Johnson is nursing a left hip flexor irritation. The Hawks are coming off a strong stretch, having won 5 of their last 6 games against the Blazers at home, and are looking to continue their momentum as they push for a playoff spot.

Why it matters

The availability of Alexander-Walker and Johnson is crucial for the Hawks, as they have been key contributors this season. Their potential absences could force the team to rely on a different starting lineup, potentially impacting their chemistry and performance against a tough Western Conference opponent like the Blazers.

The details

If both Alexander-Walker and Johnson are unable to play, the Hawks are expected to start a lineup of Dyson Daniels, CJ McCollum, Zaccharie Riscacher, Jonathan Kuminga, and Onyeka Okongwu. Kuminga, who was recently acquired by the Hawks, has made a strong impression in his first two games, averaging 22 points, 8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists while posting a +39 plus-minus, the highest for a Hawks player in their first two games with the team since at least 1997-98.

The Hawks’ game against the Blazers is scheduled for Sunday, March 2, 2026.Alexander-Walker and Johnson both missed the Hawks’ previous game against the Wizards on February 26, 2026.Johnson also missed the game before that, playing only 5 minutes.
The players

Nickeil Alexander-Walker

A starting guard for the Atlanta Hawks who is dealing with a left foot sprain and is questionable for Sunday’s game against the Portland Trail Blazers.

Jalen Johnson

A starting forward for the Atlanta Hawks who is dealing with a left hip flexor irritation and is questionable for Sunday’s game against the Portland Trail Blazers.

Jonathan Kuminga

A forward who was recently acquired by the Atlanta Hawks and has made a strong impression in his first two games with the team, averaging 22 points, 8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›
What they’re saying

“Hawks injury report for Sunday against Portland….Nickeil Alexander-Walker (left foot sprain) is questionable. Jalen Johnson (left hip flexor irritation) is questionable.”

— Brad Rowland (Twitter)

What’s next

The Hawks will continue to monitor the status of Alexander-Walker and Johnson leading up to Sunday’s game against the Blazers. If they are unable to play, the team will need to adjust their starting lineup and rotation accordingly.

The takeaway

The potential absences of Alexander-Walker and Johnson are a concern for the Hawks as they look to maintain their recent success and push for a playoff spot. However, the team has shown depth and the ability to adapt, as evidenced by the strong play of newcomer Jonathan Kuminga. The Hawks’ ability to overcome these injuries and continue their winning ways will be crucial in the final stretch of the season.