The Atlanta Hawks have confirmed that backup guard Kobe Bufkin will have surgery to address ongoing issues with his shoulder, effectively sidelining him for the remainder of the current season.

On Wednesday, the team announced that Bufkin’s surgery to correct right shoulder instability is scheduled for January 7. Despite this setback, the second-year player is anticipated to make a complete recovery in time for the next season.

Selected as the 15th overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, Bufkin has experienced significant shoulder troubles during his short time in the league. He partially dislocated his right shoulder, which prevented him from participating in the Summer League after his rookie year. Additionally, he re-injured the same shoulder during a practice session just before the start of this season, limiting him to only ten appearances. The Hawks opted to take him out of action following his last game on December 8.

Initially, Bufkin was intended to serve as the backup point guard supporting Trae Young. Instead, Vit Krejci and Dyson Daniels have stepped in to fill that role when Young is not on the court.

In other news concerning the team, center Onyeka Okongwu is expected to be sidelined for at least four games due to inflammation in his left knee. The Hawks plan to re-evaluate his condition in about a week.

Additionally, the Hawks have made a roster adjustment by requesting waivers on two-way swingman Seth Lundy, who contributed to nine games for the team last season.