**Hawks Sign Former Lakers Forward Dylan Windler to Two-Way Contract**
The Atlanta Hawks have signed forward Dylan Windler to a two-way contract, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. This move comes on the last day the Hawks could fill their open two-way contract spot, which became available after converting Trent Forrest’s contract to a standard deal.
Windler has played for both the Los Angeles Lakers and the New York Knicks this season. Originally drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the first round of the 2019 NBA Draft, Windler played college basketball at Belmont. Lauren Williams of the AJC reports that Windler has already joined the team in New York, where the Hawks will face the Knicks tomorrow night.
This season, Windler appeared in three games for the Knicks and eight for the Lakers.
In preparation for tomorrow’s game, the Hawks released their injury report with some notable updates. Onyeka Okongwu (left big toe sprain/sesamoiditis) and Trae Young (left fifth finger torn ligament) are ruled out, while rookie guard Kobe Bufkin (left big toe soreness) is listed as questionable. Bufkin has been filling in as the backup point guard during Young’s absence and has performed well, particularly on defense.
Regarding the Knicks, Jalen Brunson, who appeared to suffer a serious injury against Cleveland, is listed as questionable with a left knee contusion, according to Ian Begley of SNY.
The Hawks have been stuck in the 10th spot in the Eastern Conference for much of the season, but their hold on this position is weakening. Despite Trae Young being out for at least four weeks, Atlanta had a four-game lead for the last play-in spot before an important two-game stretch against the Brooklyn Nets. However, Atlanta lost both games, reducing their lead to two games. The Nets, who now hold the season series and tiebreaker over the Hawks, have revived their hopes of catching up to Atlanta.
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