HawkTodd

1) Luol Deng 2) Shaun Livingston 3) Devin Harris

I don't undersrand how anybody can discredit Deng yet praise and praise Shaun Livingston. I can see if you don't like Luol Deng for the way he plays, that's finr but don't then turn around and say how great it would be for the Hawks to draft Shaun Livingston. Nobody here has probaly ever seen him play except for the high school all star games which aren't exactly a good way to judge talent. I'm not saying Livingston won't be a solid player at some point in his career but it is going to take him a long time to adjust to the NBA level especially coming in and trying to learn argubly the hardest position in the point guard spot. Livingston also doesn't exactly have an NBA body, he's not LeBron James coming into the NBA last year. I think with the massive success he had immediatelty made some people forget how hard it is and the length of the process it is for most any player coming into the league out of high school.

I would love to see the Hawks get Luol Deng. I think he would fit in perfectly with Atlanta. You also don't have to worry about the immaturity factor with him like you do with some of the other players. Deng is mature beyond his years. He also wont be the type of player that complains about playing time and what not. Luol Deng: ------------------------------------------------------------ Deng ascends to NBA stage (6-24-04). http://www.chronicle.duke.edu/vnews/displa...4/40dae15b511f3

Hawks News (6-23-04) Hawks close, too far (6-23-04). http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/h...04/24hawks.html Dwight Howard buzz puts Hawks in spotlight (6-23-04). http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/0...24atldraft.html ------------------------------------------------------------ Hawks have plethora of picks for major rebuilding job (6-23-04). http://www.accessnorthga.com/news/ap_newfu...ry.asp?ID=40438 ------------------------------------------------------------ NBA Draft filled with questions, uncertainty (6-24-04). http://www.journalnow.com/servlet/Satellit...s=1037645509228 The Atlanta Hawks were known to be one of the teams making a push to acquire the No. 1 pick from the Magic. "We've worked on it diligently," General Manager Billy Knight said. "Now, all we can do is sit back and wait. Whatever happens, happens." The Hawks would want to select Dwight Howard, a local prep star, with the first pick, which would be just fine with the expansion Charlotte Bobcats, who seem to be leaning toward Okafor, a 6-10 junior from Connecticut, as their preferred choice at No. 2. ------------------------------------------------------------ ESPN.com’s Final mock draft (6-23-04). http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/draft2004/ne...tory?id=1826621 6. Hawks Shaun Livingston PG | 6-7, 186 | Peoria (Ill.) High School Why? Again, Livingston has more potential than anyone in the draft. He does things already at his size that no one else can do. Patience will be the key. In the end, ESPN Insider Chad Ford believes the Hawks will be better off with Livingston than Howard in the long run. 17. Hawks Josh Smith SF | 6-8, 220 | Oak Hill Academy Why? Smith's agent claims this is the lowest the prep could possibly go. And Smith's people believe he could go as high as No. 5. He has been all over the board. He's one of the hardest players to get a read on in the draft. He falls on this board because he doesn't have a true position, and he's not as skilled as some guys. But he's by far the best athlete in the draft and the Hawks can afford to wait as two very good high school players develop. ------------------------------------------------------------ Bobcats still trying to deal (6-23-04). http://www.charlotte.com/mld/observer/news.../8995275.htm?1c The Bobcats still don't have a feel for who the Orlando Magic are going to take with the No. 1 overall pick. Although they want Okafor, conversations with Howard have made either choice desirable. Charlotte had been concerned over Howard's desire to play for his hometown Atlanta Hawks and feared that if they drafted the high school prospect he would play out his contract then sign with Atlanta. But Howard convinced the team he could be comfortable in Charlotte, making the Bobcats feel better about selecting him. "We're not preparing for No. 1 or No. 2 because we're comfortable that whoever remains, it will be a win-win for the Charlotte Bobcats," Bickerstaff said. ------------------------------------------------------------ Eastern Conference draft preview capsules (6-23-04). http://sportsline.com/nba/story/7442478 Atlanta Hawks (28-54) Picks: 6, 17, 34, 37 and possibly 30 from Orlando It's a good thing the Hawks have all these picks, because they need EVERYTHING! A power player would be the preference, but hometown prodigy Dwight Howard is a pipe dream -- it doesn't sound like they'll be able to move up to get him. If they stay put, they would like another prep phenom in Shaun Livingston, a guard who would fit very well with Jason Terry in the backcourt, but he is likely to go to the Clippers at No. 4. In other words, nothing has been decided. With five of their top 10 players as free agents, expect them to deal a lot of these picks for veterans. ------------------------------------------------------------ NBA.com Mock Draft: One Writer’s Opinion (6-23-04). http://www.nba.com/draft2004/mock_draft.html 6th Pick: Atlanta Hawks Shaun Livingston | 6-7 | G | Peoria Central H.S. | U.S. Hawks are in rebuilding mode and Livingston could be the most talented player in the draft. If Jason Terry is in the team’s long-range plans, a tall point guard would be a nice fit in the backcourt. 17th Pick: Atlanta Hawks Josh Smith | 6-9 | F | Oak Hill Academy | U.S. Hawks are in rebuilding mode and Smith could be the best athlete in the draft. Livingston and Smith could be scary down the road. ------------------------------------------------------------ Draft starts flurry of offseason changes (6-23-04). http://www.idsnews.com/story.php?id=23675 A team I'm looking for to do some damage tonight are the Atlanta Hawks. There is some relevance to this. The Hawks have more picks than any other team, a total of five, two in the first round and three in the second round. With a roster returning just four players, here is a team looking to take advantage of the Draft. Josh Smith, the former IU recruit, could go as high as the lottery (the first 14 picks) or the middle of the draft. Don't be surprised if he ends up in Atlanta. The Hawks need fans, and getting one of their own would be a step toward bringing them back. ------------------------------------------------------------ THE DAILY (6-23-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_8737.shtml Atlanta Hawks: The Atlanta Hawks have only a handful of players under contract yet the expansion rules dictated they must expose at least one player for the Bobcats to select. So the Hawks exposed Captain Alan Henderson, whose $8.5 million salary next season was expected to dissuade the Bobcats from selecting him, whether for themselves or as trade bait for someone else. The ploy worked perfectly. Captain Henderson is still a Hawk. ------------------------------------------------------------ Fanball.com 2004 NBA Mock Draft (6-23-04). http://www.fanball.com/ph/article.cfm/ID.2530 6. Atlanta Hawks: Shaun Livingston, PG, Peoria Central H.S. (IL) The Hawks are still working feverishly to find a way to get the local kid Howard, but Livingston is a pretty good consolation prize. Shaun needs to add some more muscle to his frame, but many scouts believe he's one of the top two or three talents in this draft. The Hawks aren't going anywhere in the very near future, and they can afford to develop a high school product. 17. Atlanta Hawks (from Bucks via Nuggets and Pistons): Josh Smith, SF, Oak Hill Academy (VA) Smith is the other Atlanta-born talent in this draft, and the Hawks will consider him at the sixth spot simply because of that fact. He's ultra-athletic and would sell a lot of tickets, which is why there's no way Atlanta would pass on him if he slipped this far. An inside presence like Kris Humphries is a greater need, but the Hawks have plenty of time to address that during their multi-year rebuilding phase. ------------------------------------------------------------ MOCK DRAFT: So many teams -- so many questions Possible deals make it tough for predictions (6-23-04). http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c...SPG1E7ACBD1.DTL 6. Atlanta: Shaun Livingston, 6-7 guard, Peoria Central High. True point guards are hard to find, and those who see the whole floor from atop a 6-7 frame are almost nonexistent. That combination makes Livingston special. 17. Atlanta: Al Jefferson, 6-10 forward, Prentiss High (Miss.). After filling a need earlier in the draft, Hawks go for sheer potential in a high schooler with a man's body.

Mavs deal Jamison for No. 5 overall pick (6-23-04). http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=1827125 The Dallas Mavericks, while still hoping to convince the Los Angeles Lakers to send them Shaquille O'Neal, have completed a trade on the eve of the NBA draft that could have additional significance, ESPN.com has learned. The Mavericks, according to league sources, have acquired the No. 5 overall pick in Thursday's draft from Washington as part of a package that features Antawn Jamison, the newly minted Sixth Man of the Year, as the prize catch for the Wizards. ESPN's David Aldridge reports that the Wizards also will send Christian Laettner and Jerry Stackhouse to the Mavericks in the deal. Sources say the Mavericks hope to use the No. 5 pick to sweeten the package they can offer the Lakers in exchange for the disgruntled O'Neal. It is also possible, sources say, that the Mavericks will pursue additional trades that include Laettner and/or Stackhouse. The trade still requires the league's approval. ------------------------------------------------------------ DALLAS MAVERICKS: Jerry Stackhouse & Christian Laettner & 5'th Overall Pick WASHINGTON WIZARDS: Antawn Jamison

Hawks News (6-22-04) Draft Workout Comments, 6/22/04. http://www.nba.com/hawks/news/workout_comments_040622.html Andre Emmett squares up to shoot a jumper. Hawks Announce Ticket Pricing For Upcoming Season (6-22-04). http://www.nba.com/hawks/tickets/Hawks_Ann...05_release.html ------------------------------------------------------------ Knight talks with Magic, but deal for No. 1 remote (6-22-04). http://www.ajc.com/hawks/content/sports/ha...04/23hawks.html Hawks not changing ticket prices (6-22-04). http://www.ajc.com/hawks/content/sports/ha...4/23ticket.html Neal to do Hawks play-by-play (6-22-04). http://www.ajc.com/falcons/content/sports/.../0604/23tv.html ------------------------------------------------------------ Howard has NBA role models (6-22-04). http://msnbc.msn.com/id/5271867/ Orlando has the No. 1 pick this time, though the Atlanta Hawks — with two first-round choices — are trying to trade up and would undoubtedly like to take the hometown star. “We’ve worked on it diligently,” Hawks general manager Billy Knight said. “Now all we can do is sit back and wait.” The Hawks are in much the same position as Cleveland was a year ago, a poor team that struggles to draw fans. But even if Knight manages to swing a deal for Howard, the teenager isn’t likely to have the same impact as James. ------------------------------------------------------------ Hawks Offseason Plan (6-22-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_8704.shtml ------------------------------------------------------------ 2004 Extended Mock Draft (6-22-04). http://nbadraft.net/mock2004.asp 6) Atlanta Hawks - Ben Gordon (Connecticut): This is a team that has decided to start fresh and ridded itself of most of it's aging talent and expensive contracts. With a combo already in place with Jason Terry, this pick doesn't make perfect sense. But consider Gordon the best player available, and the odds of a trade (up or down) decent. Gordon going to the Hawks is not out of the realm of possibility as Terry could be traded. Or they could decide to go with a small athletic backcourt. With the 6th and 17th picks and cap room, the Hawks are in a great position to make some deals. They still have Dwight Howard in their sights and are prepared to give up a number of picks to get him. Josh Smith is still a possibility here, but the Hawks may still look to trade up to get Howard. 17) Atlanta Hawks - J.R. Smith (St. Benedict's Prep): Smith had some rough workouts, but teams remain high on him anyway. Boston is a possibility at 15, and Smith could even get into the lottery. There is a rumor that if he's there at 18, New Orleans has tald him they will take him. ------------------------------------------------------------ DIME: NBA mock draft 4.0 (6-22-04). http://www.foxsports.com/content/view?contentId=2510528 6. Atlanta Hawks — Shaun Livingston, PG, 6-7, 175 The Hawks would have loved to trade up and grab hometown hero Dwight Howard. Unless Atlanta can make a miracle happen, Atlanta will have to go in a different direction. The Hawks will make this pick based on the future. Shaun Livingston's future is as high, if not higher, than anyone else in this draft. Fans may only get a glimpse this year, but give the kid a couple years and Hotlanta has themselves a stud. 17. Atlanta Hawks (via Bucks) — Al Jefferson, PF, 6-9, 263 —If you're gonna rebuild, then rebuild. Not messing around, the Hawks take two high schoolers. Jefferson hasn't received a lot of press, but the kid can play and can probably play right away. Although Jefferson is raw, he's got the physical skills where he can step in and help on the boards immediately. ------------------------------------------------------------ A look at every team's chances of getting Shaq (6-22-04). http://www.foxsports.com/content/view?contentId=2504930 No salaries, no talent, no way: Atlanta: The Hawks barely have a $20 million payroll, and the players they're paying are not exactly Shaq-worthy. ------------------------------------------------------------ Dwight Howard has name, but Josh Smith has big upside, too (6-22-04). http://www.ajc.com/hawks/content/sports/ha...04/23smith.html ------------------------------------------------------------ What Will the Hawks Do? (6-22-04). http://hawks.realgm.com/showarticle.php?artid=451 ------------------------------------------------------------ THE DAILY (6-22-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_8721.shtml Atlanta Hawks: Having relocated from the sunny shores of the Gulf of Mexico to the Pacific Northwest recently, you tend to find the simpler things in life prevail and see that there a truths in everything you take for granted. People around here still love basketball for the love of the game. They find time to take a few breaths and analyze it over the gas pumps, something you could never do on the East Coast. And, by getting up at 5:00 a.m., you see that 'the early bird gets the worm' isn't just a cliche --- it's a fact as you watch robins and their young pull defenseless hermaphroditic annelids from the dew-drowned soil as the sun rises. Which led me to ponder, as I sat on my front porch ..... if the Atlanta Hawks wanted Dwight Howard so badly, why is he likely taking his talents seven hours south to Orlando the day after tomorrow? Furthermore, where's their friggin' head coach? Don't tell me Billy Knight's going to coach the team, too? Who does he think he is, Don Nelson? ------------------------------------------------------------ Bobcats, Clippers trade could thwart Hawks' draft plans (6-22-04). http://www.accessnorthga.com/news/hall/new...ry.asp?ID=82278 ------------------------------------------------------------ Blazers forward Abdur-Rahim wants out, will not attend camp (6-22-04). http://www.columbian.com/06222004/sports/158725.html

Hawks News (6-21-04) Knight Discusses Draft at Media Availability (6-21-04). http://www.nba.com/hawks/news/knight_predr...ity_040621.html Hawks G.M. Billy Knight talked draft with the media on Monday. ------------------------------------------------------------ Hawks have options on draft day (6-21-04). http://www.ajc.com/hawks/content/sports/ha...04/22hawks.html Bobcats get No. 2 pick, good shot at Howard (6-21-04). http://www.ajc.com/hawks/content/sports/ha...04/22draft.html ------------------------------------------------------------ THE DAILY (6-21-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_8705.shtml Atlanta Hawks: Dallas assistant coach Del Harris is reportedly a frontrunner for the still-vacant head coaching position for the Hawks but the next few days are going to be such busy ones both for Harris and the Hawks that naming him their new leader might be almost unworkable. Between the expansion draft, the real draft, and Harris coaching China's national team in Dallas, there's little time for lunch, let alone a press conference. The other reported frontrunner for the Hawks coaching job is Indiana associate head coach Mike Brown. ------------------------------------------------------------ Checking The Board (6-21-04). http://www.ctnow.com/sports/basketball/hc-...rd0621.artjun21,1,3702437.story?coll=hc-headlines-basketball TEAMS IN NEED: The Atlanta Hawks, who have the No.6 pick, had Gordon, Nelson and Livingston in for workouts the same day. "All of the guys were impressive in different ways," Hawks general manager Billy Knight said. Livingston's stock is so high, he could be taken by Orlando or the Clippers with one of the first two picks.

Bobcats Acquire #2 Pick In 2004 NBA Draft (6-21-04). http://www.nba.com/bobcats/news/acquire_nu...ick_062104.html Quote: The Bobcats have acquired the second overall pick in the 2004 NBA Draft from the Los Angeles Clippers. The Bobcats will send the No. 4 overall pick, along with their second-round pick (No. 33 overall), to Los Angeles for the No. 2 choice and the rights to center Predrag Drobnjak. Clippers Acquire 4th and 33rd Selections From Charlotte (6-21-04). http://www.nba.com/clippers/news/draft_trade_040621.html Quote: The Los Angeles Clippers today acquired the fourth and 33rd overall picks in the 2004 NBA Draft from the Charlotte Bobcats in exchange for the second overall selection in the draft. In addition, Charlotte has agreed to select Clippers’ center Predrag Drobnjak in Tuesday’s expansion draft.

Hawks News (6-20-04) Ainge may try youth movement (6-20-04). http://celtics.bostonherald.com/celtics/vi...articleid=32588 Hawks eye power move: Hawks general manager Billy Knight has confirmed that he is attempting to trade up, with the sixth and 17th draft picks in hand, in an attempt to draft high school forward Dwight Howard. The reasoning is simple enough. Though no one is about to put Howard in the same class as LeBron James, the hope is that the Atlanta-bred Howard can spark the same fever pitch in Atlanta that James provided by staying local in Cleveland. ------------------------------------------------------------ For now, Shaq & T-Mac to Mavs is wishful thinking (6-20-04). http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dw....280415ad7.html Briefly: Del Harris still is awaiting word on Atlanta's decision on a head-coaching move. Harris has talked with the Hawks, but the team still has at least one other candidate to interview, Detroit assistant coach Mike Woodson. Harris is believed to be a front-runner for the position, if he wants it. ------------------------------------------------------------ NBA RUMOR MILL - Why The Magic Lost McGrady (6-20-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_8685.shtml PROGONISTICATING: CLIPPERS TRADE THE #2: If the Atlanta Hawks get assurances that Orlando is going to pass on Dwight Howard, expect the Hawks to take a contract and the #2 pick off the Clippers hands, in exchange for Jason Terry and the #6, the Clips like Ben Gordon, and he’ll likely be there at #6. The Clips then have some room to pursue a serious center and don’t rule out Erick Dampier being seriously pursued by the Clip show with the money they earmarked for Kobe. TERRY IN - QUENTIN GONE: With a better than average chance the Clippers end up with Jason Terry in a draft day deal, its more likely than not Quentin Richardson is permitted to leave, not because the Clippers don’t like him or want him, but because Denver is going to plunk some serious cash on the table for Q, and the Clips may not be interested in matching it. With the Clips already invested in Corey Maggette and Elton Brand and talk that they will pursue a center in free agency, Q may be the odd man out of the bank book, simply because they get a similar player in Jason Terry in a deal with Atlanta. ------------------------------------------------------------ Iverson to the Raptors? (6-20-04). http://www.foxsports.com/content/view?contentId=2502426 This one's not a rumor. The Bobcats have confirmed that they made an offer to the Clippers for the number 2 pick. We fully expect the Clippers to deal the pick; it is a question of whether it is with the Hawks or the Bobcats. The Magic worked out Dwight Howard on Friday and seem to be set to hold onto the pick. If the Hawks move up to number 2, we'd guess the Magic have decided to go Okafor. If the Bobcats nab the number 2 pick, we'd guess the Magic is going Howard. We'll see. ------------------------------------------------------------ Nuggets after potential Lakers castoff (6-20-04). http://www.denverpost.com/Stories/0,1413,36~90~2223606,00.html Footnotes: Indiana associate head coach Mike Brown and Dallas assistant Del Harris look to be the front-runners for the Atlanta Hawks' head coaching job. Harris is currently coaching China's national team, which includes Houston all-star Yao Ming and former Mavericks draft pick Xue Yuyang. The team is practicing in the Dallas area, where it will play exhibition games. ------------------------------------------------------------ Who'll be Magic's next 'go to' guy (6-20-04). http://www.news-journalonline.com/NewsJour...MAG01062004.htm The workout will likely be the only one Howard holds for any team before the draft. He said he might meet with officials of both the Los Angeles Clippers, who own the No. 2 pick, and the expansion Charlotte Bobcats, who will pick fourth. There have been reports that Howard will wind up with the Atlanta Hawks, who would trade the sixth and 17th overall picks for the Clippers' first-round selection. Those feelings might have subsided since Howard and his father, who is a Georgia state trooper and the athletics director at the school where his son just graduated, came to town. ------------------------------------------------------------ Okafor, Howard aren't locks for top pick (6-20-04). http://www.mysanantonio.com/sports/stories....27bab9765.html There is intrigue about the No. 2 spot in the draft, too. The Clippers have that pick, but are entertaining offers from teams that want to move up, notably the expansion Charlotte Bobcats and the Atlanta Hawks, who would love to get home-grown Howard to sell to their fans. Atlanta has both the No. 6 and No. 17 picks in the first round. If the Clippers believe they can get a player they like at No. 17 — Saint Joseph's point guard Jameer Nelson, in particular — they might be willing to deal with Atlanta. “I know one thing,” said Denver Nuggets assistant general manager David Fredman. “We're not going to know where a lot of these guys are going to end up until the first round is over and all the trades have been announced. “There's going to be a lot of hat-changing.” ------------------------------------------------------------ DRIVING THROUGH THE END OF THE SEASON (6-20-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_8688.shtml ETD's mock 1st round: 6-Atlanta- G Ben Gordon UConn- He'll get drafted to be traded to the Clippers. 17-Atlanta- F Josh Smith Smyrna (GA) HS ------------------------------------------------------------ Okafor heads draft list of relative unknowns (6-20-04). http://www.contracostatimes.com/mld/cctimes/8969444.htm?1c Dwight Howard, Mr. Basketball in Georgia this past season, also is expected to go near the top, with the hometown Atlanta Hawks perhaps looking to move up a few spots to ensure they get the high school standout. Howard, 6-11 and 240, averaged 25 points and 18 rebounds per game for Southwest Atlanta Christian, which won the Georgia Class A state championship. But perhaps more important, Howard appears to be an 18-year-old with a maturity to go along with his game. The Clippers are said to be listening to offers for their pick, and the Hawks are said to have interest. A report in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution had the Hawks offering both their first-round picks (Nos. 6 and 17) to Los Angeles for the No. 2 pick and possibly another player. The plan then would be for the Hawks to take Howard. Charlotte Bobcats coach/general manager Bernie Bickerstaff, whose teams owns the No. 4 pick, acknowledged he may be looking to move up to No. 2. "There's a good possibility we can move to two," Bickerstaff said. "We're working on it. We're pursuing it. Now, it's out of our hands. What we would be willing to do is on the table." ------------------------------------------------------------ Howard has huge impact at SACA (6-20-04). http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/0...21hsimpact.html ------------------------------------------------------------ MOCK DRAFT, PHASE II (6-19-04). http://forecaster.chicagosports.chicagotri...raft-MockDraft1 ROUND 1: 6. Atlanta Hawks: Andre Iguodala, SG, Arizona University (Sophomore) Rumors still persist Atlanta will try to trade up to nab local high school hero Dwight Howard, but they don't have much to offer any team other than Jason Terry. If they can't get Howard, expect the Hawks to grab Iguodala. A phenomenal athlete, superb passer, and fundamentally sound all-around player, Iguodala could go even higher than this (but not likely lower). His stock is soaring after some dominant workouts. 17. Atlanta Hawks (via Nuggets/Bucks): Peter John Ramos, C, 7-4, 275 pounds, Criollos de Caguas (Puerto Rican summer league) Much like Pavel Podkolzine, Ramos could be a huge steal or a huge bust. Whatever the case, he's certainly huge. There are only a couple of guys in the NBA right now who are taller, and he's shown enough skill and coordination to be an interesting project. ROUND 2: 35. Atlanta: Trevor Ariza, SF, UCLA (Freshman) Ariza is exactly the type of player the Hawks love to draft--tall, very athletic, versatile, and able to play defense. He's a little like their pick from last season, Boris Diaw-Riffiod, in that he looks and plays a bit like a young Scottie Pippen. 38. Atlanta: Jackson Vroman, PF, Iowa State University (Senior) Where'd he come from? Vroman wasn't highly touted just a month ago but has wowed scouts lately, showing fierce rebounding and a nose for the ball at both ends. He's a big, strong, tough player who has 'NBA' written all over him. The Hawks need that kind of guy. ------------------------------------------------------------ L.A.'s best show in town -- As the Lakers turn (6-19-04). http://www.nj.com/sports/ledger/index.ssf?...03404146050.xml In case you missed it, the Chinese Olympic team has a pretty good coach this summer, DEL HARRIS . The team, which includes YAO MING and three other seven-footers, will train in Texas through July 5, and play three exhibition games against the Mavericks' summer league squad. Now the only question is how Uncle Delmer will find the time to take over the Atlanta Hawks if they hire him. He's one of the six finalists, along with fellow assistants MIKE BROWN (Indiana), MIKE WOODSON (Detroit), DWANE CASEY (Seattle), JOHN MacLEOD (Denver) and MIKE FRATELLO.

Hawks News (6-19-04) Hawks GM hopes to have new coach by July 1 (6-19-04). http://www.ajc.com/hawks/content/sports/ha...04/20coach.html ------------------------------------------------------------ Bulls get another look at Iguodala (6-17-04). http://www.dailyherald.com/sports/sports_s...p?intID=3815777 Hawks eye Howard: Desperate for an attraction to fill the empty seats at Philips Arena, the Atlanta Hawks are trying hard to pry the No. 2 draft pick away from the Los Angeles Clippers. If Connecticut power forward Emeka Okafor is chosen first by Orlando, the Hawks are looking to land Atlanta prep sensation Dwight Howard with the second pick. Howard is a 6-10 power forward from Southwest Atlanta Christian Academy. According to the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Hawks are offering the No. 6 and 17 picks in Thursday's NBA draft and are willing to take on a veteran that the Clippers would like to remove from their payroll. The Charlotte Bobcats are also vying for Howard, reportedly dangling the No. 4 pick and anyone the Bobcats pluck off the expansion list. ------------------------------------------------------------ Crazy off-season under way (6-18-04). http://www.foxsports.com/content/view?contentId=2500312 In what is shaping up to be a desperate move considering the unstable situation of the franchise and last year's dismal performance, the Hawks are intensifying their efforts to nab the Clip Joint's No. 2 overall selection according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. The grand prize of course is Atlanta-bred power forward Dwight Howard, but he may not even be there if the Magic are scared off by Emeka Ofakor's back injury. The Hawks, who need to get better at virtually every position, would part with both first round picks and would absorb one of the Clippers' disgruntled veterans. Let's just hope that the Clips wouldn't then use both picks on another set of power forwards like last time. ------------------------------------------------------------ Rip's roots made Joe Pistons fan (6-19-04). http://www.tallahassee.com/mld/democrat/sports/8961107.htm Lost ring: As a member of the Detroit Pistons for 53 games this season, Bob Sura said he sensed the team could do some damage in the playoffs. "The attitude was great and it was a tight-knit group," the former Florida State guard told the Akron Beacon-Journal. "It took a while to get used to (head coach) Larry Brown. But once everybody did, we kind of knew we could do something big." Too bad for Sura, but he missed out on an NBA championship by less than four months. In February, he was part of a three-team trade between Detroit, Atlanta and Boston that sent Rasheed Wallace to the Pistons and sent Sura on his way to triple-double outbursts for the Hawks. ------------------------------------------------------------ Clippers Very Picky About No. 2 (6-19-04). http://www.latimes.com/sports/basketball/n...clippers19jun19,1,4102713.story?coll=la-headlines-sports-nba-clippe Those spots are thought reserved for Emeka Okafor, who led Connecticut to the NCAA championship in April, and Dwight Howard, who was the high school player of the year last season at Southwest Atlanta Christian Academy. Both are 6-foot-9 power forwards. Neither has scheduled a workout with the Clippers, whose glut of power forwards includes starter Elton Brand and former lottery picks Chris Wilcox and Melvin Ely, but the club remains hopeful. Howard's father, Dwight Sr., told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that his son is scheduled to meet Sunday with Clipper General Manager Elgin Baylor. Okafor is thought to be ticketed for the Orlando Magic, which holds the top pick, while Howard is coveted by the Charlotte Bobcats, who own the fourth pick, and his hometown Atlanta Hawks, who own the sixth and 17th picks. Citing the team's logjam of power forwards, Howard said last week that he hoped the Clippers would trade their pick. The Hawks reportedly have dangled their two first-round picks in exchange for it, also offering to take on an unwanted Clipper contract, such as Predrag Drobnjak's. For the Clippers, the more space they clear below the salary cap, the more lucrative the contract they can offer free-agent-to-be Kobe Bryant. "There's a good possibility that we'll move to [No.] 2," he said. "Now it's out of our hands. What we would be willing to do is on the table." Baylor laughed at the assertion. "I'm sure the other teams are saying the same thing," he said. "They've made proposals; the other teams have done the same thing." Although the Hawks and Bobcats seem to have been most aggressive in pursuing the Clippers' only pick in the draft — or, at least, the most vocal about it — Baylor indicated that several other teams have made proposals too. ------------------------------------------------------------ No easy solutions to Friday's fallout (6-19-04). http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/basketb...l-ira20newjun20,0,1468639.column WHAT NOW? Of Friday's proclamations, Bryant's foray into free agency likely will deliver, after the requisite league wide recruiting, the least impact. With the banishment of Jackson and the downsizing of O'Neal's status, the 25-year-old guard essentially has emerged as Jerry Buss Jr. He owns the Lakers' future. Figure Indiana, with one of the league's deepest rosters, to be involved in talks for both players. Still, it is unlikely Jermaine O'Neal will be in play, with the All-Star too big to be lost for a wing player in McGrady, too young to be dealt for Shaq. The Rockets (Steve Francis), the Mavericks (Antoine Walker), the Suns (Marion, but not Amare Stoudemire), the Clippers (the No. 2 pick and Corey Maggette), the Bulls (No. 3 and maybe Eddy Curry), the Hawks (No. 4 and Jason Terry), the Grizzlies (Pau Gasol), the Kings (Peja Stojakovic, Chris Webber) and the 76ers (Allen Iverson) also figure to come into play. ------------------------------------------------------------ Swift will go in first round, 'promise' (6-19-04). http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/draft2004/co...andy&id=1824899 The Clippers, who pick second, could make a trade with Atlanta for the Hawks' sixth and 17th picks and could select Swift with the latter of the two selections. ------------------------------------------------------------ Mock NBA Draft (6-19-04). http://www.chicagosportsreview.com/nationa...ew.asp?c=112004 6. Hawks--Livingston--I feel that Livingston will slip and the Clips will get their man after dealing him for Howard. 17. Atlanta--Kirk Snyder--Already adding Howard to their frontcourt, the Hawks add another solid youngster. Snyder is a big guard who can score and defend. He adds size to the Hawks backcourt with Terry and Sura.

Hawks News (6-18-04) THE DAILY (6-18-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_8660.shtml Atlanta Hawks: Take a little time trip with me, will ya? No DeLorean, no PCP, nothing ... just sit back, relax and reach back in the annals of your basketball memory banks for a minute or two. Flash back to the summer of 1996. The Charlotte Hornets were up with the 13th pick, deliberating, then selecting a high school kid from Lower Merion (Pa.) High. Four picks later, to a cascade of boos resonating throughout the team's draft party in the Rose Garden, another youngster fresh off graduation from Eau Claire High School in Columbia, South Carolina was plucked green from the vine. Jump forward five years to 2001's draft, where Michael Jordan summons up the courage to make Kwame Brown the first-ever high-schooler to be picked #1 in an NBA Draft. Dwight Howard thinks he has what it takes to be #1, and he has the right to think like that. This isn't the 1996 draft. Other than Connecticut's Emeka Okafor, there is no one even close to challenging Howard's claim to the #1 spot in the draft. ------------------------------------------------------------ Spurs Offseason Maneuvers (6-18-04). http://www.woai.com/spurs/story.aspx?conte...71-2026940BAB99 Two names that have been tossed around as possible free agent additions for the Spurs are Stephen Jackson and Brent Barry. Both players can fill it up from the outside and play multiple positions. Jackson, as Spurs fans will recall, was an integral part of the 2003 championship run. His clutch shooting and hardnosed play made him a crowd favorite but after he was unable to reach contract terms with the Spurs, he headed to Atlanta to play for the Hawks. Now the Spurs and Jackson may reunite after a year apart. ------------------------------------------------------------ Rumors are just that to Wittman (6-18-04). http://www.twincities.com/mld/twincities/s.../8950940.htm?1c ------------------------------------------------------------ Home, 'Sheed, home? (6-18-04). http://www.freep.com/sports/pistons/rosey18e_20040618.htm Wallace won't come out and say he's coming back, for obvious reasons. We all like to squeeze an extra million or two out of our bosses when we can, and it's hard to do that when you show your cards. But everything he wants is here for him. And it isn't anywhere else. Atlanta can afford him, but if the Hawks wanted him, they would have kept him rather than traded him to the Pistons. He's not going to Atlanta. ------------------------------------------------------------ Throwin' 'Bows: Mock Draft (6-18-04). http://insidehoops.com/throwing-061804.shtml 6. Altanta Hawks: Iron Mike Tyson. The Hawks have plenty of cap space, but no one willing to take their money. Mike needs money, and no one else wants to play for the Hawks, so why not? Tell me, are you more interested in seeing Mike go toe-to-toe with Kevin McBride or Ron Artest? ------------------------------------------------------------ Blazers owner talks about Abdur-Rahim (6-18-04). http://www.columbian.com/06182004/sports/157235.html

Hawks News (6-17-04) Hawks seek No. 2 pick, Howard (6-17-04). http://www.ajc.com/hawks/content/sports/ha...4/18howard.html ------------------------------------------------------------ Sura remains fond of area (6-17-04). http://www.ohio.com/mld/beaconjournal/8949648.htm?1c ------------------------------------------------------------ THE DAILY (6-17-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_8646.shtml Atlanta Hawks: Holes. Atlanta's roster is filled with them. The closest thing to a sure-thing is combo guard Jason Terry. But he can't really be considered a staple of the franchise when he himself doesn't know which position truly fits him best. And those holes aren't going to fill themselves, that will be the responsibility of Hawks' GM Billy Knight. And maybe Knight will want to consider trading down in the draft instead of trading up, because it would only give the Hawks more chance of finding a gem from the draft.

Hawks News (6-16-04) Point Guards Highlight Wednesday’s Workout (6-16-04). http://www.nba.com/hawks/news/predraft_workout_040616.html Jameer Nelson shoots a free throw during Wednesday's session. ------------------------------------------------------------ Hawks audition point guards (6-16-04). http://www.ajc.com/hawks/content/sports/ha...04/17hawks.html Photos: Hawks hold pre-draft workout (6-16-04). http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/p...ut1/image1.html ------------------------------------------------------------ THE DAILY (6-16-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_8632.shtml Atlanta Hawks: Last year, the Spurs spurned Stephen Jackson's demands for a big contract, making him what he felt was a lowball offer, which he rejected out of principle and became a free agent. Unfortunately his free agency contract with the Hawks was at an even lower price, but now Jackson is looking to opt out of his contract, become a free agent again, and start his advances with the team that rejected him in the first place. Stephen Jackson wants to be a Spur again. ------------------------------------------------------------ Hansen, Johnson working for Year 2 (6-16-04). http://www.sltrib.com/2004/Jun/06162004/sports/175844.asp ------------------------------------------------------------ TSN.ca NBA Mock Draft (6-16-04). http://www.tsn.ca/nba/feature.asp?fid=9415 6. Atlanta Hawks - Andre Iguodala, SG, Arizona (6'7", 217 lbs.) A wide open roster will benefit from the superior athleticism that Iguodala brings. With outstanding workouts and an improved shot, Iguodala is valuable at both ends of the floor. 17. Atlanta Hawks - Al Jefferson, PF, Mississippi HS (6'10", 262 lbs.) Has a pro-style body and is active in the paint, which should get him immediate playing time in Atlanta, where they need help inside. ------------------------------------------------------------ Bobcats' doubts on Deng dissipate (6-16-04). http://www.charlotte.com/mld/charlotte/sports/8933201.htm?1c Of course that assumes the Bobcats stay in the four spot in the June 24 rookie draft, and that's no given. Several NBA sources confirm that Bickerstaff is aggressively pursuing the No. 2 pick owned by the Los Angeles Clippers. The Bobcats' primary competition in those trade discussions is the Atlanta Hawks. ------------------------------------------------------------ Chat wrap: Ken Bikoff (6-15-04). http://proxy.espn.go.com/chat/chatESPN?event_id=5416 Matt (Atlanta): Any Hawks rumors or news? I keep hearing about them trying to get D Howard, but no concrete news yet. Is it all smoke, or is their fire ahead? Ken Bikoff: The Hawks would love to make Dwight Howard their building block for the future, and I'm hearing the same thing about Josh Smith. The Hawks have to move up to get a shot at Howard, but they don't have much to barter with. It comes down to the talent you can offer, and I think that's where the Hawks will struggle to get a shot at Howard unless he slips. And there are a lot of people who are starting to get antsy about Howard's status. He is sliding on some draft boards. Steve (Riverdale, GA): There is a rumor going around Atlanta that the Hawks are moving to Birmingham, and changing mascots to the Gators. Can a major metro area like ATL go without a major basketball team, or would the NBA be making a good decision moving to another smaller city? Ken Bikoff: I haven't heard any rumors like this, and I don't think the NBA is interested in moving out of Atlanta to Birmingham. The NBA is looking to build the league, and I don't know that they would be willing to step back into a smaller market and bolting Atlanta. They just would like the Hawks to be more competitive to bring the spirit back to Atlanta that has been missing. ------------------------------------------------------------ 2004 Atlanta Hawks Draft Party. http://www.nba.com/hawks/fans/Draft_Party_2004.html

Hawks News (6-15-04) High-Profile Prospects Visit Hawks as Draft Nears (6-15-04). http://www.nba.com/hawks/news/draft_workout_040616.html ------------------------------------------------------------ NBA star, local shoots hoops with students (6-15-04). http://www.panews.com/articles/2004/06/15/news/news02.txt ------------------------------------------------------------ Livingston, Gordon, Harris, Nelson to Work Out for Hawks (6-15-04). http://hawks.realgm.com/showarticle.php?artid=450 ------------------------------------------------------------ Stephen Jackson Hopes To Return To Spurs (6-15-04). http://www.woai.com/spurs/story.aspx?conte...FC-43396196BF1F ------------------------------------------------------------ THE DAILY (6-15-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_8616.shtml Atlanta Hawks: There are various media sources out there that figure the Atlanta Hawks will look to build around a young star who is beginning to prove himself since taken in the 1999 NBA Draft --- five-year guard Jason Terry. There are others who have made the inference that Terry would demand a trade if the Hawks do not retain Stephen Jackson --- who's rumored to be heading back to San Antonio after a not-so-blissful year-long respite in Georgia's capital city as the Hawks are unlikely to be able to offer Jax any money worth staying for. ------------------------------------------------------------ Summer Heat (6-15-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_8621.shtml Free Agency: Miami has also been in rumors involving Atlanta's Jason Terry, a player that the Heat talked about pursuing years ago. The Hawks don't want to take on a contract like Jones's in return, so that rumor might be dead before it even started. ------------------------------------------------------------ Atlanta Hawks 2004 Draft Preview (6-14-04). http://www.sportsnetwork.com/default.asp?c.../acn3295028.htm ------------------------------------------------------------ Sean Deveney's mock first round (6-14-04). http://www.foxsports.com/content/view?contentId=2487728 6. Atlanta: Shaun Livingston, 6-7, PG, Peoria (Ill.) Central H.S. Probably will wind up a Clipper. 17. Atlanta: Luke Jackson, 6-7, SF, Oregon. Unselfish, all-around player; good sixth-man potential. ------------------------------------------------------------ Henderson Only Hawk Unprotected (6-14-04). http://hawks.realgm.com/showarticle.php?artid=449 ------------------------------------------------------------ No room for cold feet in this draft (6-14-04). http://www.foxsports.com/content/view?contentId=2487696 2001: The player: Shareef Abdur-Rahim to the Hawks. The pick: No. 3 (Pau Gasol) to the Grizzlies. The extras: The Hawks got the rights to Jamaal Tinsley (traded to Indiana on the same day); the Grizzlies got Lorenzen Wright and Brevin Knight. The result: Maybe Gasol is only slightly better than Abdur-Rahim, but he is bigger and four years younger. Throw in Wright and Knight, and this one was a dud for the Hawks.

Hawks News (6-13-04) Bzdelik's job looks more like sure thing (6-13-04). http://www.denverpost.com/Stories/0,1413,36~90~2209867,00.html Footnotes: The Hawks, who have the sixth pick, still are trying to move up in the draft in hopes of landing Southwest Atlanta Christian Academy forward Dwight Howard. ------------------------------------------------------------ Evans enjoys overseas experience (6-13-04). http://www.kentucky.com/mld/kentucky/sport...cky/8912014.htm Casey update: Dwane Casey, whose UK service included stints as a player and assistant coach, might be getting close to a longstanding hope of becoming an NBA head coach. He interviewed for the Atlanta Hawks' job last month. Casey has the endorsement of Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Mark Bradley, who recently wrote: "Casey, who's 47, has spent a decade learning the nuances of the NBA, and he has helped develop two raw talents who bypassed college -- Shawn Kemp and Rashard Lewis -- into stars. Whoever coaches the Hawks needs to be deft with young players, and Casey demonstrably is. Whoever coaches the Hawks must be able to absorb the inevitable bumps, and Casey's career is a testimony to adaptation and reinvention. Given a chance at this good job, Dwane Casey would do a good job." Bradley, a UK graduate and once the self-styled "Voice of Reason" in Lexington media circles, knows well Casey's past trials and tribulations. The famous $1,000 Emery package cut short Casey's stay as a UK assistant in 1989 and caused him to shift his coaching ambitions to the NBA. ------------------------------------------------------------ Add Ainge to growing list of Luke Jackson's admirers (6-13-04). http://www.oregonlive.com/sports/oregonian...41464218220.xml There's even talk of the Chicago Bulls trading the No. 3 pick to Atlanta (No. 6) if prep star Dwight Howard isn't selected in the top two picks. The Hawks would select Howard and the Bulls would then pick Jackson. ------------------------------------------------------------ Jazz not short on options (6-13-04). http://www.sltrib.com/2004/Jun/06132004/sports/174898.asp The Clippers could also be interested in trading the No. 2 pick, since they already have made a long-term financial commitment to power forward Elton Brand and Howard players the same position. Atlanta is apparently interested in trading up from No. 6 for the chance to get Howard, a home-grown product whom the struggling Hawks could pitch to their rapidly dwindling fan base as the second coming of LeBron James. ------------------------------------------------------------ 2004 NBA Mock Draft (FullSportPress.com) (6-13-04). http://www.woai.com/spurs/story.aspx?conte...4B-6EEE2B2F6E86 6. Atlanta Hawks -- Ben Gordon (6'2 PG UCONN) -- Gordon is never afraid to shoot and should become a high-octane scorer in no time. 17. Atlanta Hawks -- Sergei Monya (6'7 SG Russia) -- The Hawks select Monya in hopes that he’ll be a solid piece for a developing team.

Hawks News (6-12-04) Duhon unspectacular, but determined to prove he belongs (6-12-04). http://www.cleveland.com/sports/plaindeale...50601167490.xml Rumor mill: Several league sources said the Atlanta Hawks (who have the sixth selection) and Los Angeles Clippers, who have the No. 2 selection, are listening to offers to swap picks. ------------------------------------------------------------ Marlins not positive on changing name (6-12-04). http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews...rts/8909358.htm CHATTER: Word is the Heat likes Atlanta point guard Jason Terry, but the Hawks would not want Eddie Jones in a trade. ------------------------------------------------------------ Howard wants Hawks or Magic (6-12-04). http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/0...13nbadraft.html ------------------------------------------------------------ Upside or experience? That is choice with top pick (6-12-04). http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/bask...ce13061304jun13,1,5694881.story?coll=orl-magic It's no national secret that Howard wants to play in his hometown of Atlanta as much as the Hawks want him as a LeBron-like drawing card. The problem: Atlanta, picking sixth, needs to jump up to at least No. 1 or 2 to grab him. The Hawks are working the phones. ------------------------------------------------------------ Basketball camp at Brebeuf (6-12-04). http://www.indystar.com/articles/7/154198-7267-014.html The 2004 Alan Henderson Basketball Camp will be Monday through Thursday at Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School. Sessions are scheduled from 8 a.m. to noon for Grades 3-5 and from 1 to 5 p.m. for Grades 6-8. The camp's cost is $135. Henderson, who plays for the Atlanta Hawks in the National Basketball Association, is a 1991 Brebeuf graduate who also played for Indiana University. He will be at the camp every day. Tamika Catchings of the Indiana Fever is scheduled to be on hand at 4:30 p.m. Monday, and former Pacer Billy Keller is expected at 11:15 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. Tuesday. The Alan Henderson Financial Assistance Program at Brebeuf benefits from the proceeds of the camp. For more information, call (317) 773-9526.

Hawks News (6-11-04) Mavs expose Walker to draft (6-11-04). http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dw...slede.eeb0.html Harris, Hawks still waiting: Mavericks assistant coach Del Harris remains one of the top candidates for the Atlanta Hawks head-coaching position. The Hawks continue to talk to several other interested parties, including Detroit assistant coach Mike Woodson and Indiana assistant Mike Brown. However, it is believed that the Hawks are more interested in somebody with head-coaching experience. Harris has been a head coach for 13 years. After arriving back from China earlier this week, Harris said he's waiting regarding the Hawks' job and would prefer not to comment. The Hawks have given no timetable for a hiring to replace Terry Stotts other than sometime this month. ------------------------------------------------------------ NBA camp snubs Sebastian (6-11-04). http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/story/201717p-174099c.html The Los Angeles Clippers were high on Telfair this spring, but since landing the second pick in the draft, they seem more likely to select Okafor, Howard or Harris, unless they opt to trade the pick to a team like Atlanta. The Hawks covet Howard because of his hometown roots and apparently have offered the Clippers their Nos.6 and 17 picks in the first round. ------------------------------------------------------------ THE DAILY (6-11-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_8575.shtml Atlanta Hawks: Atlanta's two picks are worth slightly more than the Clippers' #2 overall pick if the rookie scale contracts are an indication of value (which they can be considered to be since they are the result of a collective bargaining agreement). That means the Clippers should be willing to trade with Atlanta. However, the Hawks have competition: Utah's three draft picks together are worth even more.

Hawks News (6-10-04) Are the Hawks Running with the Bulls? (6-10-04). http://hawks.realgm.com/showarticle.php?artid=448 ------------------------------------------------------------ Chat wrap: Chad Ford (6-10-04). http://proxy.espn.go.com/chat/chatESPN?event_id=5359 Ernest Atlanta, GA: What are your thoughts on a possible LAC-ATL trade for Dwight Howard, specifically the combinations that might make it work for both clubs? Chad Ford: They're trying, but here's the issue. It's still not a given that Howard will be there at No. 2. The Magic are talking with trades with several teams that like Howard and the Magic themselves, haven't ruled him out. That Hawks only want to move up if that brings them home Howard. It's too early to guarantee that. I think some combination of the No. 6 and No. 17 pick will work for LA. David (Macon, Georgia): Dear Mr. Ford, What have you heard recently about the Hawks drafting situation? Any rumors out there concerning them? Thanks. Chad Ford: The best question about the Hawks is what they do if they don't get the No. 2 pick. Some say Shaun Livingston (the Hawks also watched him workout today). Others say it will be Iguodala if he's still there. At No. 6, the draft starts getting very speculative. There are a lot of ways to go. . . ------------------------------------------------------------ THE DAILY (6-10-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_8564.shtml Atlanta Hawks: The Atlanta Hawks will quickly become the one of the youngest teams in the NBA if they utilize and keep all of their upcoming draft picks. Having four total picks, the Hawks have an opportunity to build a team from scratch, especially if they fail to re-sign Stephen Jackson and trade away Jason Terry. Only Doc Rivers and the Celtics have as many (15, 24, 25 and 41), though the Celtics have the upper hand with three first-rounders. Atlanta has the sixth pick (drawn in the lottery last month), 17th (from Milwaukee via Denver via Detroit), 35th (technically 34th, due to the Minnesota/Joe Smith debacle in 2000) and 38th (from Philadelphia). That gives them crack shots at possibilities like University of Connecticut point guard Ben Gordon, Minnesota Golden Gopher Kris Humphries, Kevin Martin of Western Carolina and Duke's Chris Duhon. But one has to wonder still, who will the Hawks hire to sit on those eggs until they're ready to fly? ------------------------------------------------------------ Several teams showing interest in Hill (6-10-04). http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/bask...ic10061004jun10,1,6912457.story?coll=orl-sports-headlines Last summer, the Atlanta Hawks acquired injured Minnesota Timberwolves guard Terrell Brandon for salary-cap purposes. Brandon realized he'd have to retire after a serious knee injury. He had $11 million left on his contract, but it came off the Hawks' cap in February, giving Atlanta more money to use in free agency and trades. By dumping Brandon's contract, the Timberwolves cleared enough space to make a four-team trade and sign Latrell Sprewell. ------------------------------------------------------------ 'Ex-Hawk' Wallace thriving in Detroit (6-10-04). http://www.ajc.com/thursday/content/epaper...15b05100f4.html

Hawks News (6-9-04) Harris impresses, Livingston doesn't in pre-Chicago camp workouts (6-9-04). http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2004/bask...monter.rumors3/ Despite their enviable draft position, the Clippers have been rumored to be interested in trading down, possibly with Atlanta (who might want local prep standout Dwight Howard) and take a playmaker with the Hawks' sixth pick. The Clippers are interested in adding a veteran point guard, and the openly unhappy Hawks playmaker Jason Terry might be a good fit. ------------------------------------------------------------ THE DAILY (6-9-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_8552.shtml Atlanta Hawks: There has been much talk recently about whether the Hawks can convince Stephen Jackson to stay in Atlanta instead of returning to the Spurs. It seems to be one of General Manager Billy Knight's top priorities. But there are two other players whose importance to the franchise is almost equal to Jackson's. Those two being Bob Sura and Zelijko Rebraca. ------------------------------------------------------------ IBL eyes Q-C market (6-9-04). http://www.qconline.com/archives/qco/secti...splay&id=198275 The Quad-Cities hasn't had pro basketball since the QC Thunder folded its CBA franchise in February 2001. The Thunder started out playing its games in 1987 at Wharton Field House -- one of the original homes of the NBA, with the old Tri-Cities Blackhawks moving from this area in 1951, and eventually becoming today's Atlanta Hawks. ------------------------------------------------------------ Chat wrap: Dr. Jack Ramsey (6-8-04). http://proxy.espn.go.com/chat/chatESPN?event_id=5375 Todd (Woodstock, Georgia): Dear Dr. Jack, have you heard any rumors pertaining to the Atlanta Hawks either in their search for a head coach or possibly making a pitch to trade up in the draft to obtain local high schooler Dwight Howard? Thanks. Dr. Jack Ramsay: Mike Woodson...Pistons ass't...is in the running but can't get involved until the Finals are over. He'd be a good choice. The Hawks would like to draft Howard...and may get him without moving up from their 5th spot.

Hawks News (6-8-04) Paxson says he won't rule out trading draft picks (6-8-04). http://www.suntimes.com/output/bulls/cst-spt-bull08.html The Atlanta Hawks, who have the No. 6 and No. 17 picks, are rumored to be offering guard Jason Terry and their No. 6 to the Clippers for the No. 2 pick, which they would spend on 6-10, 245-pound Atlanta high school sensation Dwight Howard. ------------------------------------------------------------ THE DAILY (6-8-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_8543.shtml Atlanta Hawks: The Hawks will do anything to get Dwight Howard into a Hawks jersey. The latest rumor is that Atlanta has offered Jason Terry and their #6 pick to the LA Clippers for their #2. But they don't seem to be doing much to put anybody into the coach's seat. Will Billy Knight pull a d*ck Cheney and pick himself as head coach? ------------------------------------------------------------ Houston: Paying for Past Mistakes (6-8-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_8546.shtml 2000 Draft: Evaluation: Jason Collier never got much playing time in Houston, but the Atlanta Hawks were happy to give him some and he has turned out to be quite a player for them. He played the last 20 games of the 2003-04 season with the Hawks, earning a starting spot after just four outings, and wound up averaging 11.3 points, 5.6 rebounds, and shooting 48% from the field and 79% from the foul line as their starting center. He's no Yao Ming, but he could certainly be a solid back-up to the big guy.

Hawks News (6-7-04) Pacers' Brown will interview with Hawks (6-7-04). http://www.indystar.com/articles/4/153008-5464-036.html ------------------------------------------------------------ Gaze to play 22nd season (6-7-04). http://www.heraldsun.news.com.au/common/story_page/0,5478,9778186%255E10914,00.html BOOMERS big man David Andersen has enhanced his reputation in Europe by winning the series MVP as Montepaschi Siena clinched the Italian championship. Siena swept the best-of-five title series, beating the rich and powerful Skipper Bologna 92-63 at home on Sunday as Andersen finished with 20 points and 11 rebounds. Melbourne-raised Andersen, whose NBA rights are held by the Atlanta Hawks, now returns to Australia seeking a spot on the Boomers roster for the Olympics. ------------------------------------------------------------ Howard dons Hawks jersey -- for charity game (6-7-04). http://www.ajc.com/hawks/content/sports/ha...4/08howard.html ------------------------------------------------------------ NBA Draft: Okafor No. 1 and then take your pick (6-7-04). http://www.sportsline.com/nba/story/7399445 2. Atlanta Hawks (from the Clippers): We figure Atlanta will move up to get hometown hero Dwight Howard, which will allow the Clippers -- already loaded at power forward -- to embarrass themselves 17. Atlanta Hawks: The Hawks need two of everything, so they'll pair choir boy Dwight Howard with nasty LSU PF Jaime Lloreda. ------------------------------------------------------------ Pre-Draft Workout, June 6. http://www.nba.com/hawks/news/draft2004_workout_060604.html

Hawks News (6-6-04) Pacers assistant expected to interview in Atlanta (6-6-04). http://www.denverpost.com/Stories/0,1413,36~90~2195102,00.html ------------------------------------------------------------ DIME SMACK: Finally, the finals! (6-6-04). http://www.foxsports.com/content/view?contentId=2464184 As for draft rumors, we heard a crazy one that the Clip Joint might trade down with the Hawks so Atlanta can take Sebastian Telfair at the deuce. Call us crazy, but we think Bassy would still be there at No. 6 where Atlanta is slated to draft. The Clips would then use that pick to select Big 10 Player of the Year Devin Harris. ------------------------------------------------------------ Knicks might not go back to Houston (6-6-04). http://www.nj.com/sports/ledger/index.ssf?...97493226680.xml Not only is Atlanta a pitiful NBA market, you won't even know what you're getting if you take the coaching position. The Hawks have exactly four players under contract, and one of them (ALAN HENDERSON , no doubt) has to be put up for expansion. ------------------------------------------------------------ Embry has plans to join Raptors (6-6-04). http://www.cleveland.com/sports/plaindeale...14228122240.xml Wayne Embry, former Cavaliers president and general manager, is expected to be named to an administrative post with the Toronto Raptors on Monday. Embry, 67, declined to comment on the specifics of the position, saying, "I'd rather that information come from the Raptors on Monday." Apparently part of Embry's hesitation is that an exact title has yet to be determined, but he will act as an adviser to new Raptors General Manager Rob Babcock. Embry also had discussions with the Atlanta Hawks about a similar position.

I wouldn't have a problem with the Hawks offering him. He not only, in my opinion, can still contribute but he would also drum up interest in the program not only locally but also on a natioanl scale. As long as he isn't to much of a distraction, which can never be guaranteed with Rodman, and that he is truly commited to making a come back attempt to the NBA and not just a publicity stunt then I would be all for signing him and at least giving Dennis a chance. Dennis Rodman: What a matchup Dennis Rodman and Ron Artest would be.

Hawks News (6-5-04) New Hawks owner want to bring Dominique back to the family (6-5-04). http://www.sportsbusinessnews.com/index.asp?story_id=36443 ------------------------------------------------------------ Creed's split is now permanent (6-5-04). http://www.philly.com/mld/philly/entertain.../8843405.htm?1c Diddy's new purchase? Baseball- and hip-hop-loving folks, listen up: According to the New York Post, hip-hop and fashion mogul, restaurateur and sometime-performer Sean "P. Diddy" Combs is angling to make some NBA purchases - and we ain't talking jerseys. His Diddyness is said to be interested in buying the Atlanta Hawks and a chunk of the New York Knicks.

Hawks News (6-4-04) Pacers assistant excited about Hawks interview (6-4-04). http://www.ajc.com/hawks/content/sports/ha...04/05hawks.html Oops! Did Hawks GM inadvertently aid Pistons? (6-4-04). http://www.ajc.com/hawks/content/sports/ha...06nbanotes.html ------------------------------------------------------------ DIME: NBA mock draft 3.0 (6-4-04). http://www.foxsports.com/content/view?contentId=2459936 6. Atlanta Hawks — Shaun Livingston, PG, 6'7" 175 - OK, OK. We got a ton of hate mail about dropping Livingston all the way to 13 in our last mock draft. Some said we should quit our jobs. Others even accused us of smoking crack. We probably just had too much faith that NBA GMs would favor point guards with college experience ... but we succumbed. Livingston's upside really is tremendous, and his height can't be overlooked. With the Hawks shopping Jason Terry, they'll need a point guard. And, again, as much as Livingston is a project a few years away from competitiveness, so are the Hawks. 17. Atlanta Hawks (via Bucks) — Josh Smith, SF, 6'8" 214 - Two high school players in the first round? Honestly, why not? The Hawks aren't going to win anytime soon, so they might as well take two young guys (Livingston and Smith) who not only already know each other, but can also grow up in the League together for a few seasons. Smith's upside and highlight-reel potential is tremendous, and he could definitely go much higher than this, but his untested talent may make him drop. If he's here when the Hawks are picking, the local kid has to be picked up. ------------------------------------------------------------ THE DAILY (6-4-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_8499.shtml Atlanta Hawks: Stephen Jackson was one of the biggest surprises in the NBA last year. After he felt disrespected with the Spurs' contract offer, Jackson ended up having to settle for a deal close to the minimum with the Hawks. He made it worth Atlanta's money averaging 18 points per game. He recently stated he was going to opt out of his contract with the Hawks and become a free agent. Atlanta needs to offer Jackson enough money to make it worth staying with a franchise in disarray. Because one of the other alternatives for him may be to return to San Antonio. ------------------------------------------------------------ Bryant's lawyers say court order violated (6-4-04). http://www.contracostatimes.com/mld/cctime.../8836504.htm?1c Hawks: Dominique Wilkins has been offered a chance to buy a small stake in the Atlanta Spirit partnership that owns the Hawks, the Thrashers and Philips Arena operating rights. Wilkins says he'll jump at the opportunity. ------------------------------------------------------------ The next big thing? (6-4-04). http://www.portlandtribune.com/archview.cgi?id=24642 One rumor has the Clippers, who own the second pick, trading with Atlanta, which has No. 6, and taking Wisconsin guard Devin Harris. Among the players the Hawks would consider taking at No. 2 is Telfair. ------------------------------------------------------------ Sunday’s Pre-Draft Workout Schedule. http://www.nba.com/hawks/news/predraft_wor...ule_060404.html