Kent Bazemore Injury: Updates on Hawks Forward's Knee and Return

Atlanta Hawks forward Kent Bazemore was helf out of Thursday night's game against the Toronto Raptors with a knee injury. However, he has been cleared to return to the lineup. 

Continue for updates.

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Bazemore Active vs. Celtics 

Saturday, Apr. 9

Bazemore will play against the Boston Celtics on Saturday, per Chris Vivlamore of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. 

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Hawks Relying on Bazemore with Playoffs Approaching

Bazemore had appeared in 72 of Atlanta's first 78 games in 2015-16, starting 65 at the small forward position. In his first four years in the NBA, Bazemore started just 35 games combined. 

He's gone from a reserve who was known for his celebrations on the bench to a player capable of garnering starting time thanks to his athleticism to stretch the floor as well as his defensive abilities. 

Bazemore is in the league's top 20 in defensive win shares with a mark of 3.5 to go with his 11.4 points per game this season. He also ranks third on the team with 90 steals.

His aerial ability around the rim is also a plus, as he adds another strong presence who can get to the basket for Atlanta:

The Hawks get Bazemore back at just the right time as they look to gain momentum heading into the playoffs. 

Stats courtesy of Basketball-Reference.com.