AJC: Joe Johnson to return to lineup as Hawks look for 'mental edge' over Magic

[Hawksquawk]

J.J. practiced today and said he “definitely” will play against the Magic after missing a game with a sprained right thumb.

“A little sore but it will be all right,” he said. “I have had a couple days to rest so I am sure it will be ready to go.”

Joe said he would probably wear some kind of protective device on the thumb. He said he was able to shoot the ball without problems while participating in the full session.

“He was actually pretty good,” L.D. said. “I asked him how the thumb was and he said it was much better than a couple days ago. That’s good to hear. I thought he shot the ball pretty good today.”

Smoove missed the final portion of practice to get treatment on his sore right knee. He’s not listed on the injury report.

If Joe returns to the lineup and if Jameer Nelson (knee) is able to play, it would be the first Hawks-Magic this season in which both teams had all their regular starters available.

Nelson sat out the Magic’s 93-89 victory on Nov. 8 at Amway Center. …

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