Looks like the Atlanta Hawks have dodged a bullet.
Center Al Horford sustained a dislocated right pinkie finger during Game 1 of the Hawks' first-round series against the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday.
Horford left the game briefly during the fourth quarter, before returning from the locker room with his pinkie and ring fingers taped together, reports Andy Vasquez of The Record.
Fortunately, X-rays were negative for breaks, Horford told Chris Vivlamore of the Atlanta Journal Constitution.
"It definitely affected me," Horford said. "Having it taped like that around my finger, especially on my shooting hand, was very uncomfortable to shoot the ball."
Here's a video of Horford experiencing discomfort in his right hand.
Despite the injury, Horford managed to finish with a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds in the Hawks' 99-92 win in Game 1.
Horford is arguably the Hawks' best player. He's a tremendous defender, a slick pick-and-pop option and the steadying backbone of the Hawks' high-octane attack.
The three-time All-Star is averaging 15.2 points, 7.2 rebounds and 3.2 assists in 30.5 minutes per game this season.
