Hawks Star John Collins Suspended 25 Games for Violating NBA's Anti-Drug Policy

The Atlanta Hawks managed to avoid the worst with Trae Young's nasty looking ankle injury he suffered last week, but the same cannot be said for another one of the franchise's young talents.

John Collins, one of last season's breakout stars, has been suspended 25 games by the NBA for violating the league's Anti-Drug policy.

This is a crucial blow to the Hawks, who will now be missing one of their best players for more than a quarter of the season. Collins, along with Young, had Atlanta as genuine contenders to make the playoffs in the Eastern Conference coming into the year.

More details have emerged on Collins' suspension, as he reportedly tested positive for Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide 2. His moratorium will begin Tuesday night against the San Antonio Spurs.

The burden will now fall on the likes of Chandler Parsons, Evan Turner, and Allen Crabbe to take on more of a roll. Even rookies De'Andre Hunter and Cam Reddish will be gifted more minutes by head coach Lloyd Pierce.

In 2018, Collins averaged 19.5 points, 9.8 rebounds and shot 34.8% from deep, knocking down 0.9 3's per game. The loss of the 22-year-old is a significant blow for Atlanta.