It was reported earlier in the week that Tiago Splitter was seeking opinions on his hip that has been bothering him since the beginning of the season. Splitter has opted to have surgery on that hip and will miss the remainder of the 2015-2016 season.
Splitter has been bothered by this hip injury and a calf injury for the entire season. He was able to play in 36 games for the Hawks but never once looked really comfortable or as effective as he was in San Antonio. The 6-foot-11 inch center was averaging just 5.6 points and 3.3 rebounds in Atlanta.
Its unfortunate Splitter could never really hit his stride with Atlanta, and this is a big reason why Atlanta currently ranks 28th in rebounding. His passing ability for a big man is second to none,and the fanbase would have appreciated him much more had he been 100%. The Hawks clearly aren’t clicking on all cylinders like they did last season, but their roster is arguably better on paper for postseason play than it was last season.
This injury is a huge blow for the Hawks, as we saw how susceptible they became when injuries began to hinder them last season. Without a superstar model, injuries for role players can decimate a team. The injury calls for an expanded role for Mike Muscala, and we may see a lot more of Edy Tavares as well. Splitter is still under contract through next season. We wish him a speedy and healthy recovery.