John Jenkins to miss the rest of the season after lower back surgery

Nov 3, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Atlanta Hawks head coach Mike Budenholzer talks to Atlanta Hawks shooting guard

(12) during the first half against Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports

The Atlanta Hawks announced today that sophomore guard John Jenkins underwent successful lower back surgery this morning and that he will miss the rest of the season. Dr. Hal Silcox performed the surgery from the Peachtree Orthopaedic Clinic.

Jenkins was only able to play in 13 games this season after experiencing some discomfort in his back earlier in the year. His last appearance for the Hawks was Dec. 20 against the Utah Jazz. In the Hawks’ 118-85 beat down of the Jazz, Jenkins played 18 minutes and scored seven points on 3-7 shooting. He also picked up three rebounds and two assists.

For the season, Jenkins was only averaging 3.1 points, 1.7 rebounds and 12.2 minutes per game. While it was limited time, Jenkins’ scoring numbers this year were much lower than his rookie season with Atlanta when he was averaging 6.1 points in 14.8 minutes per game. During the 2012-13 season Jenkins played in 61 games with the Hawks. He’s only started twice so far in his NBA career.

While this isn’t a huge loss for the Hawks by any means, they are already dealing with a handful of injuries and adding to that group is never a good thing.

We’ll keep you updated as news arises about his recovery.