Bey Down: Hawks Forward Tears ACL, Out for Season

Last night you watched in horror as Saddiq Bey crumpled to the floor, clutching his left knee in agony midway through the fourth quarter when the Hawks loss to the Pelican 116-103 at State Farm Arena. The diagnosis is in – it’s an ACL tear, ending his season prematurely.

The 19th overall pick in the 2020 draft from Villanova, Bey began his career with the Detroit Pistons before being traded to the Hawks last season. Bey was off to a strong start in his second year with the Hawks, he appeared in 63 games with 51 starts. He averaged 13.7 points and 6.5 rebounds. His size, shooting, and defensive versatility made him an ideal fit in Coach Snyder’s system. Bey’s injury is a huge blow to a Hawks team.

Hawks Injury List Keeps Growing

The injury to Bey comes at an unfortunate time for the Hawks, who were already dealing with multiple injuries to key players.

• Star point guard Trae Young has been sidelined after he tore a ligament in his left pinkie in a Feb. 23 loss to Toronto.
• Forward Jalen Johnson has missed the last two games with a sprained right ankle.
• Backup center Onyeka Okongwu went down before the All-Star break and underwent shoulder surgery and will be reevaluated in six weeks.
• Rookie guard Kobe Bufkin, the team’s first-round pick, has been diagnosed with a left big toe sprain and will be in a walking boot.

The loss of Bey for the season is a setback, but the Hawks have the resources to weather the storm.

A Long Road Ahead

ACL injuries typically require 6-9 months of rehab before returning to basketball activities. Bey will undergo surgery in the coming weeks, then face the difficult process of re-strengthening his knee and re-learning how to play at an NBA level. Though still young, injuries of this nature can sap some of a player’s athleticism and quickness. All eyes will be on Bey’s recovery, with the hope that he returns as the same dynamic, impactful player.

This one sting, sports lovelies. Bey was just starting to look comfortable in the ATL offense. Now the Hawks have to move forward without their promising forward for the remainder of the season. Either way, keep your head up, Saddiq. We’re all rooting for a speedy recovery.