NBA Free Agency: Josh Smith unlikely to sign extension

Hawks forward Josh Smith is unlikely to sign an extension before becoming an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season.

Anthony Tolliver reportedly agrees to 1-year deal with Hawks

Free agent forward Anthony Tolliver has reportedly agreed to a 1-year deal with the Atlanta Hawks worth the veteran minimum. Tolliver has had the Hawks on his list for some time now but it was unknown as to whether or not Atlanta had any interest.

Tolliver appeared in 51 games for the Timberwolves last season averaging 4.1 points per game in just over 17 minutes of action. Last season was one of Tolliver's worst as a pro and was far removed from his two solid seasons in Golden State. Tolliver has appeared in 181 career games with four different teams and has averaged 6.8 points and 4.5 rebounds per game during that span while hitting 42 percent of his shots.

What is not know at this point is whether or not Tolliver's deal is guaranteed or merely what amounts to a training camp invite.

For more on the Atlanta Hawks be sure to check out Peachtree Hoops. For more NBA news and notes be sure to check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

Hawks, Jordan Williams Reportedly Reach Buyout Agreement

The Atlanta Hawks have reportedly negotiated a buyout for forward Jordan Williams who was acquired over the summer in the Joe Johnson trade with the Brooklyn Nets. Williams was owed $762,000 guaranteed this season but terms of the buyout are not known.

The move leaves the Hawks with 11 guaranteed contracts plus Ivan Johnson's qualifying offer. Atlanta also has a partially guaranteed deal with second-round pick Mike Scott. The league roster limit is 15 players so that leaves a couple of spots for flexibility as the team enters training camp.

Atlanta already has issued non-guaranteed training camp invites to small forwards Damion James and James Anderson.

The move comes as somewhat of a surprise for the Hawks as Williams was effective for the Nets off the bench last season. Williams appeared in 43 games last season and finished with averages of 4.6 points and 3.6 rebounds per game.

For more on the Atlanta Hawks and the 2012-13 NBA season, head over to Peachtree Hoops and SB Nation Atlanta, and be sure to stick to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

Ivan Johnson Reportedly Signs Qualifying Offer With Hawks

Power forward Ivan Johnson has reportedly agreed to sign the qualifying offer issued to him in July by the Hawks which will keep him in an Atlanta uniform for the 2012-13 season. By extending the offer, the Hawks had the right to somewhat match any team's offer to him.

Johnson burst on the scene last season as an virtual unknown 28-year old rookie. After coming to training camp on a non-guaranteed deal, Johnson earned his way onto the 2012 roster beating out former second-round picks Keith Benson and Pape Sy.

Despite being listed at 6-foot-8, Johnson arguably was the Hawks best big man off the bench and at times was the team's backup center. Johnson appeared in 56 games for Atlanta during the 2011 season and finished with averages of 6.4 points and 4.1 rebounds per game.

For more on the Atlanta Hawks and the 2012-13 NBA season, head over to Peachtree Hoops and SB Nation Atlanta, and be sure to stick to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

Hawks Coach Larry Drew In Israel To Observe David Blatt

Early on Wednesday, it was reported that Atlanta Hawks head coach Larry Drew was in Israel to visit with David Blatt, who is the head coach of Maccabi Tel Aviv, and could possibly bring him aboard as an assistant coach.

However, that report is being refuted by Hawks general manager Danny Ferry, who sas that the Hawks are not attempting to hire Blatt, and that Drew is meeting with him in Israel to exchange ideas:

"Larry respects the international game and is enjoying the opportunity to share ideas with David Blatt," Ferry wrote in a text message. "David is a heckuva coach and I know that Larry appreciates that David has been so open. I know Larry is enjoying the opportunity to closely watch [Maccabi's] program. It is a highly respected program."

Going halfway across the globe to see a team practice does seem to be quite excessive, but it is probably better seeing how Blatt handles a practice in person. However, this would allow Drew to get an up-close view and able to ask questions with instant feedback.

For more on the Hawks go visit Peachtree Hoops.

Hawks Looking To Bring In David Blatt As An Assistant Coach

The Atlanta Hawks are looking at bringing in David Blatt to be an assistant coach.

Atlanta Hawks Sign Damion James

The Atlanta Hawks have added a forward to their roster in Damion James, according to multiple reports:

Free agent forward Damion James has reached agreement on a one-year deal with Atlanta, agent Mark Bartelstein told Yahoo! Sports.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) September 11, 2012

The small forward has yet to comment on the deal via his own Twitter, but it appears the Hawks will pick up the man they originally drafted two years ago. James was selected by the Hawks with the 24th pick in the 2010 Draft, but his rights were traded to the New Jersey Nets for the rights of the 27th pick Jordan Crawford and the 31st pick Tibor Pleiss.

In two years with the Nets, James was rarely used, appearing in 32 games. When he's on the floor, he has averaged 4.5 points a game.

For more on the Atlanta Hawks and the 2012-13 NBA season, head over to Peachtree Hoops and SB Nation Atlanta, and be sure to stick to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

Hawks Add Bob Weiss, Kenny Atkinson To Coaching Staff

Hawks head coach Larry Drew announced on Tuesday that former head coach Bob Weiss and Kenny Atkinson were added to his coaching staff.

Long time fans will remember Weiss who was the team's head coach from 1990-93. Weiss will be heavily involved in player development and will sit behind the team's bench and act as an advisor for Drew. Atkinson also brings a strong background in player development having been credited with helping Jeremy Lin reach the next level while in New York. The two new additions replace Kenny Gattison and Tyrone Hill from last year's staff.

The Hawks also announced that long term strength and conditioning coach Chattin Hill will not return and has been replaced by Jeff Watkinson.

The team also confirmed that former general manager Rick Sund has taken a new job in the front office as an advisor to basketball operations. Sund will assist in scouting and split time between Atlanta and his home in Seattle.

For more on the Atlanta Hawks and the 2012-13 NBA season, head over to Peachtree Hoops and SB Nation Atlanta, and be sure to stick to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

Hawks Offseason: James Anderson Invited To Camp

Free agent James Anderson has been invited to the Atlanta Hawks' veterans camp. Hawks general manager Danny Ferry is looking for a defensive minded guard and thinks that Anderson could fill that void. Ferry is also looking for someone to replace departed guard Joe Johnson, so Anderson could fill that void as well.

Last season for the San Antonio Spurs, Anderson started two games and played in 51, averaging 3.7 points, 1.5 rebounds and 0.8 assists per game. In his two years in the NBA he's only hit .380 of his field goals so he has room to improve.

Anderson was drafted in the first round by the Spurs in 2010 after playing his college basketball for the Oklahoma State Cowboys.

For more on the Atlanta Hawks and the 2012-13 NBA season, head over to Peachtree Hoops and SB Nation Atlanta, and be sure to stick to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

Hawks Offseason 2012: Spurs' James Anderson Possibly Signed By Atlanta

The Atlanta Hawks are rumored to have signed San Antonio Spurs wingman James Anderson, based off of a cryptic Tweet from (possibly now former) teammate Danny Green:

Got to show love n shout my guy @25_anderson out for the new deal with Atlanta...Congrats man! Bright future ahead

— Danny Green (@DGreen_14) August 25, 2012

SB Nation Hawks blog Peachtree Hoops has reached out to Atlanta management to try and get a confirmation, but there's no official word from either club yet. Anderson, the 20th pick of the 2010 NBA Draft, has been considered a bust with San Antonio, averaging only 3.7 points a game and 11.5 minutes. However, Peachtree Hoops points out that it's a low-risk investment for the retooling Hawks:

...the short of it is that Anderson, the 20th pick of the 2010 draft, never could make it happen for the Spurs and subsequently saw only 11 minutes per game each of his two seasons in San Antonio. Therefore, his stat sample is weak and the stats he did put up aren't pretty. From the looks of it, he couldn't make a shot consistently and followed that up by having poor defensive efficiency when he was on the floor.

For more on the Atlanta Hawks and the 2012-13 NBA season, head over to Peachtree Hoops and SB Nation Atlanta, and be sure to stick to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

Hawks Offseason: John Jenkins Wants To Be Next Ray Allen

You can't accuse Atlanta Hawks rookie John Jenkins of not thinking big. In an interview with Dime Magazine this week, he talked about his lofty career goals:

Dime: When you look back on your career in 20 years, what do you want people to be saying about you?

JJ: He gave it all he got, every night out. Greatest shooter, up there with Ray Allen. That's my goal, up there with Ray Allen and other great shooters in the League.

Jenkins was a career 43.8% shooter from beyond the arc at Vanderbilt, which is only a percentage point behind Allen's mark of 44.8% at UConn.

Where the two differ is in the rest of their game -- Allen was an All-American who averaged 23.4 points, 6.5 rebounds and 3.3 assists on 49% shooting from the floor in his final season at UConn while Jenkins averaged 19.9 points, 2.9 rebounds and 1.2 assists on 47% shooting in 2012.

For more on the Atlanta Hawks and the 2012-13 NBA season, head over to Peachtree Hoops and SB Nation Atlanta, and be sure to stick to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

Hawks Offseason: Danny Ferry Discusses Team Building

Atlanta Hawks general manager Danny Ferry recently sat down for an in-depth interview with Grantland's Charles Bethea where he discussed many topics regarding the new look Hawks. In the interview Ferry hinted at what he wants to see the Hawks eventually become.

"I like teams that move the ball and play defense. That are unselfish, that care every night. Teams that play with a system that the coach defines, so it's clear what the purpose is when they're out there on both ends of the court."

Since Ferry came onboard the Hawks are certainly capable of going in a number of directions. The trades of Joe Johnson and Marvin Williams have given the club financial flexibility and that will open up a number of avenues over the course of the next couple of seasons. Ferry made it clear however that the team doesn't want to necessarily take a step backwards. He feels they can still be competitive as currently constructed.

"Well, we have good players now to be competitive now. And we're in a position to be opportunistic going forward. We're not only going down one path. The map that we're standing on now has a lot of different roads that we can take. Whereas a month ago there really was only one road."

For more on the Atlanta Hawks and the 2012-13 NBA schedule, head over to Peachtree Hoops and SB Nation Atlanta, and be sure to stick to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

Hawks Offseason 2012: Preseason Schedule Announced For Upcoming Season

The Atlanta Hawks have released their preseason schedule for the upcoming 2012-13 season. The first thing that jumps out at you is that the preseason is now back to normal and seven games long which is much different than the rushed lockout version of last season.

The Hawks open against the World Champion Heat on Sunday, October 7 and then hit the road for three straight. Atlanta will play three preseason games at Philips Arena and four on the road.

Here is a look at Atlanta's full preseason schedule for the 2012-13 season:

Sunday, Oct 7 Vs. Miami, 2 p.m.
Wednesday, Oct 10 @ San Antonio, 8:30 p.m.
Sunday, Oct 14 @ Memphis, 6 p.m.
Tuesday, Oct 16 @ Indiana, 7 p.m.
Thursday, Oct 18 Vs. New Orleans, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, Oct 20 Vs. Dallas, 7 p.m.
Friday, Oct 26 @ Detroit, 7:30 p.m.

For more on the Atlanta Hawks and the 2012-13 NBA schedule, head over to Peachtree Hoops and SB Nation Atlanta, and be sure to stick to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

Atlanta Hawks Fire Assistant Coaches Kenny Gattison, Tyrone Hill, According To Report

The Atlanta Hawks are shaking up their coach staff in a big way, as the Atlanta Journal-Constitution is reporting that the club has let go of assistants Kenny Gattison and Tyrone Hill:

#Hawks assistants K. Gattison and T. Hill will not return. ATL seeking 1 more coach in addition to pending hire K. Atkinson.

— Michael Cunningham (@ajchawks) August 9, 2012

As mentioned by Cunningham, the Hawks are also in the process of hiring Kenny Atkinson, who has most recently served as the Knicks' development coach. Hill was a holdover from Mike Woodson's staff, while Gattison has been an assistant for two years under head coach Larry Drew.

No official announcement has been made by the team regarding any of the moves.

For more on the Atlanta Hawks and the 2012-13 NBA schedule, head over to Peachtree Hoops and SB Nation Atlanta, and be sure to stick to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

Hawks Offseason 2012: Kenny Atkinson Joining Coaching Staff, According To Report

According to a report by AJC beat writer Michael Cunningham, Knicks player development coach Kenny Atkinson is joining the Hawks coaching staff. Former Knicks point guard Jeremy Lin credited Atkinson with his development prior to his spectacular run last season.

There has been no confirmation from the Hawks as of yet and it is unclear what Atkinson's role will be with the team. Atkinson could be replacing one of Larry Drew's four holdover assistants in Lester Conner, Bob Bender, Tyrone Hill or Kenny Gattison. Nick Van Exel has served as the team's player development instructor for the past two seasons.

General Manager Danny Ferry previously indicated that he would like to see improvement from the Hawks in player development. On the surface it would seem that this hire would reflect that.

For more on the Atlanta Hawks and the 2012-13 NBA schedule, head over to Peachtree Hoops and SB Nation Atlanta, and be sure to stick to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

Atlanta Hawks Are Offseason Winner, According To Sports Illustrated

NBA To Release Atlanta Hawks Schedule Tonight

The 2012-13 NBA Schedule will be released on Thursday night.

Josh Smith Trade Rumors: Danny Ferry Holding Off ... For Now

Atlanta Hawks forward Josh Smith, a talented but enigmatic forward in the final year of his contract, has attracted interest throughout the NBA as a potential trade target.

However, new GM Danny Ferry has reportedly ended all discussions for the time being, preferring to get settled in his new job and map out what the best way forward for the organization.

With Al Horford probably untouchable and Joe Johnson's contract almost certainly untradeable, Smith is the most likely player the Hawks could move to shake up a core that hasn't made it to the Eastern Conference Finals in five trips to the playoffs.

There have been many intriguing names linked with Smith, but since he's the only real asset Ferry has in reloading, Atlanta's new GM is probably right too take a step back from the rumor mill and evaluate his new team objectively before making any franchise-altering moves.

For more on the Atlanta Hawks check out Peachtree Hoops. For more news and notes from around the NBA head over to SB Nation's NBA Basketball page.

Pau Gasol Trade Rumors: Hawks Reportedly Dangling Josh Smith

Pau Gasol and Josh Smith have seemingly been on the NBA trade rumor mill for the last 2-3 years, so maybe it's fitting the two under-appreciated PF's have now been linked together:

The Atlanta Hawks have been pursuing Pau Gasol, The Times has learned. Nothing imminent, but Josh Smith would be key piece going to Lakers.

— Mike Bresnahan (@Mike_Bresnahan) June 27, 2012

The 7'0 250 Gasol would be the perfect fit for an Atlanta team that has been trying to get by with two power forwards (Smith and Al Horford) at the center position for years. Gasol and Horford would instantly become one of the most skilled and athletic big men duos in the NBA, and they would give the Hawks the size to play with teams like Chicago and Miami in the East.

However, Smith would not be an ideal fit for LA, since his inability to space the floor would be a problem next to a low-post scorer like Bynum, who doesn't need more defenders in the lane.

For more on the Atlanta Hawks check out Peachtree Hoops. For more news and notes from around the NBA head over to SB Nation's NBA Basketball page.

Hawks Owner Bruce Levenson Discusses Danny Ferry Hire

Atlanta Hawks co-owner Bruce Levenson recently held a media question and answer session regarding the hiring of Danny Ferry as the team's new President of Basketball Operations and General Manager. According to Levenson the team had been pursuing Ferry for several months and the team is interested in putting a long range plan in place to ensure future success. Ferry no doubt had heard stories regarding the Atlanta Spirit Group and according to Levenson raised those concerns with the group.

Levenson also said that Ferry grilled ownership on their commitment and reportedly wants improvements in facilities, analytics and in player development.

"Above everything else, he was concerned would ownership make the commitment that needs to be made to create the enduring championship organization that he only wants to be a part of. He had a laundry list of things that he wanted to talk about, some of which I spoke of up there, others I'm not going to get into. There is literally a laundry list of things that he was not come here if we didn't agree to that."

"Analytitcs. There is a new wave of analytics sweeping over us. There is new investments in sports medicine and sports science that need to be made. There's a whole litany that can be done from a player-development standpoint, such as an affiliation with a D-League team. These are just some of the things that we have talked about and he has shown me why they are all important, why they are all part of building something enduring here."

Levenson went on to say that Ferry asked for "complete control of basketball operations and decisions" and ownership granted that request.

This is all music to many a Hawks fans ears but don't blame them if they hold off on rejoicing until they see some results.

For more on the Atlanta Hawks check out Peachtree Hoops. For more news and notes from around the NBA head over to SB Nation's NBA Basketball page.

Hawks Offseason 2012: Danny Ferry Gets A Six-Year Deal

The Atlanta Hawks named Danny Ferry their new general manager, and as expected, he will get a six-year deal from the organization.

Danny Ferry has accepted the Atlanta Hawks' 6-year offer to become their new GM, sources said.

— Chris Broussard (@Chris_Broussard) June 25, 2012

Before joining the San Antonio Spurs in 2010, Ferry was the general manager of the Cleveland Cavailers from 2005-2010. During that time span, the Cavaliers reached their first NBA Finals in franchise history. The Cavaliers went 272-138 (.663) during his time as general manager.

Ferry's first order of business for the Hawks will be the NBA draft. Atlanta hold the No. 23 and No. 43 pick in Thursday's draft. During his time with the Spurs, the organization used several picks on foreign players.

For more on the Atlanta Hawks check out Peachtree Hoops. For more news and notes from around the NBA head over to SB Nation's NBA Basketball page.

Hawks Offseason 2012: Danny Ferry Named General Manager

Danny Ferry is set to become the new president of basketball operations and general manager of the Atlanta Hawks, according to a news release issued by the team. Ferry will come over from the San Antonio Spurs, where he was the team’s vice president of basketball operations from 2010-2012

"Over the past nine years Danny Ferry has earned tremendous respect as a front office executive in the NBA," said Atlanta Hawks partner, Bruce Levenson. "His philosophy, character, and commitment to creating enduring and successful organizations exemplify exactly what we are looking for in a leader of the Atlanta Hawks."

While the team did not release the specifics of Ferry's contract, it is believed that he was offered a six-year deal.

He takes over a Hawks team that went 40-26 last season and was eliminated by the Boston Celtics in the first round of the NBA playoffs.

For more on the Atlanta Hawks check out Peachtree Hoops. For more news and notes from around the NBA head over to SB Nation's NBA Basketball page.

Hawks Offseason 2012: Offer To Danny Ferry Is A Six-Year Deal

The Atlanta Hawks appear serious about trying to take that next step, and to do so they have their sights set on Danny Ferry as their next general manager. They have made an offer to Ferry, an executive for the San Antonio Spurs, that is a six-year deal, according to ESPN.

On Sunday night, the Hawks released a statement to the Associated Press addressing the Ferry rumors.

"As we continue to evaluate our franchise and look to build a championship caliber organization, we reached out to Danny Ferry," the Hawks said. "We are engaged in conversation regarding the Atlanta Hawks and our basketball operations. As the situation evolves, we will update at the appropriate time."

With the Hawks committed to finding a new general manager, it also implies that team is no longer for sale.

The NBA draft is on Thursday, and the Hawks hope to have a new general manager in place by then.

For more on the Atlanta Hawks check out Peachtree Hoops. For more news and notes from around the NBA head over to SB Nation's NBA Basketball page.

Hawks Reportedly Offer General Manager Position To Danny Ferry

The Atlanta Hawks have reportedly made an offer to Danny Ferry to replace Rick Sund as the team's general manager according to a report by Yahoo's Adrian Wojnarowski.

Y! Sources: Atlanta has offered Danny Ferry its GM job, two sides engaged in serious talks. tinyurl.com/772nn2u

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) June 24, 2012

According to Wojnarowski Ferry and Atlanta have engaged in serious talks and although no deal was completed by Sunday afternoon the two sides were making progress towards an eventual agreement. Ferry had been also rumored as to be in the running for Philadelphia's gm position but has since turned his attention to the Hawks job.

Ferry would replace Rick Sund who is expected to either retire or take on an advisory position with the franchise. Sund's contract expires on June 30 which is two days after the NBA Draft.

For more on the Atlanta Hawks and their pursuit of Danny Ferry check out Peachtree Hoops. For more news and notes from around the NBA head over to SB Nation's NBA page.

Report: Hawks Speak With Danny Ferry About Becoming Next GM

With Rick Sund's time as Hawks general manager coming too an end soon, Atlanta has been looking for a replacement.

One man the Hawks have spoken to is Danny Ferry, according to ESPN.com's Chris Broussard.

Hawks have spoken to Danny Ferry about becoming their new GM, sources say. Rick Sund's contract up 6/30 & he could be consultant or leave...

— Chris Broussard (@Chris_Broussard) June 22, 2012

Ferry currently is the vice president of basketball operations for the San Antonio Spurs. After retiring as a player from the Spurs in 2003, he joined management. From 2005-2010, Ferry was the GM of the Cleveland Cavaliers, helping put talent around LeBron James and taking the Cavs to unprecedented heights. He resigned in 2010 as the Cavs remade the organization hoping to keep James. We know how that went.

2012 Summer League: Rick Sund's Reign As Hawks GM Ends Soon, So What's Next?

The Atlanta Hawks and soon to be former general manager Rick Sund are in discussions to have Sund remain with the organization after his contract expires at the end June. Sund's options in the Hawks front office are foggy at the moment, but Sund has had continued dialogue with Hawks co-owners Bruce Levenson and Michael Gearon Jr. about other opportunities to stay with Atlanta in some capacity beyond the 2012 NBA Draft.

Sund didn't have a ton of details to share on Saturday after working out a few draft prospects.

"All I'm going to say is Bruce and I are kicking around a few ideas and when something gets totally resolved we will let you know." -- Hawks GM Rick Sund

Sund was reported to be a candidate for the Portland Trail Blazers open general manager position, yet when the Blazers reached out to the Hawks, they denied Sund permission to speak to Portland's brass. Portland eventually hired former Los Angeles Clippers' general manager Neil Olshey. The Philadelphia 76ers also are been reported as interested in Sund's services.

For more on the Atlanta Hawks check out Peachtree Hoops. For more news and notes from around the NBA head over to SB Nation's NBA Basketball page.

2012 NBA Summer League: Hawks Announce Vegas Schedule

The Atlanta Hawks will open play in the 2012 NBA Vegas Summer League on Friday, July 13 against the Washington Wizards. This year's league consists of 24 teams and 60 games from July 13-22 at the Cox Pavillion and Thomas & Mack Center on the UNLV campus.

NBA TV will televise all 60 of the league's games including 39 taking place live. The games will also be made available digitally via internet streaming. Game times and complete broadcast schedule will be announced at a later date.

Here is a look at the full 2012 Vegas Summer League schedule for the Atlanta Hawks:

Friday, July 13 Vs. Washington Wizards
Sunday, July 15 Vs. San Antonio
Monday, July 16 Vs. Boston
Wednesday, July 18 Vs. Dallas
Thursday, July 19 Vs. Portland

All of the Hawks games will take place at the Cox Pavillion

For more on the Atlanta Hawks check out Peachtree Hoops. For more news and notes from around the NBA head over to SB Nation's NBA Basketball page.

Rick Sund A Candidate For 76ers General Manager Opening, According To Report

Atlanta Hawks general manager Rick Sund is reportedly a potential candidate for the soon-to-be vacant GM post with the Philadelphia 76ers. Rod Thorn is stepping down as the Sixers' president and GM this offseason, and while they continue their draft operations with Thorn steering the ship, reports surfaced this week that the Sixers interviewed Danny Ferry as a candidate for the next GM.

Naturally, Sund's name has also come up as a potential replacement for Thorn. His contract runs out at the end of June and it's still unclear whether he will receive an extension. The Trail Blazers initially considered Sund for their opening, but the Hawks did not let Portland interview him. Now, it appears the Hawks may be faced with that same decision if the Sixers come calling. Via John N. Mitchell of the Philadelphia Inquirer:

Atlanta general manger Rick Sund is also believed to be a potential candidate. Sund's contract expires at the end of the month, and there is no word from Atlanta or Sund on whether he will be extended. Last month the Hawks denied Portland's request to speak with Sund regarding its hunt for a GM. Portland eventually filled the position with former Los Angeles Clippers GM Neil Olshey.

Sund is one of many candidates whose name has been rumored in Philly. But there are concerns that the new GM will not retain full autonomy over player personnel decisions, with head coach Doug Collins wielding plenty of power within the organization.

For more on the Atlanta Hawks check out Peachtree Hoops. For more news and notes from around the NBA head over to SB Nation's NBA Basketball page.

Atlanta Hawks Offseason: Rick Sund Dodges Questions About Josh Smith's Future

In an in-depth interview with the Atlanta Journal Constitution, Atlanta Hawks GM Rick Sund talked about how he viewed the team's season, where they stand in the Eastern Conference hierarchy and how they can improve going forward.

Sund deftly maneuvered around many of the tougher questions, but perhaps his most interesting comments came from what he didn't say about Josh Smith, the talented but enigmatic forward who has only one more year left on his contract:

MC: Will you try to sign Josh Smith to an extension?

Sund: I'm not going to get into contract stuff.

MC: Is it your perception Josh is still happy being here with the Hawks?

Sund: I'm going to have his exit interview sometime this week. But, yeah, when you read the things of him saying . . . He's such a competitor. I was talking to his dad the other day, and he mentioned we all think we should be playing, and that's great. And [Josh] is one of them.

Sund mentioned that the team's goal was to get themselves to the Conference Finals, which he called the NBA's "Final Four", but without much salary cap space, dealing Smith may be the only way to shake the Hawks core up.

For more on the Atlanta Hawks check out Peachtree Hoops. For more news and notes from around the NBA head over to SB Nation's NBA Basketball page.

Atlanta Hawks Rumors: Sergiy Gladyr Could Play In Summer League

The Atlanta Hawks' Ukrainian draft pick Segiy Gladyr from 2009 might make his way to the U.S. to play for the Hawks eventually. According to reports, Atlanta has already offered to buyout his contract overseas to add shooting depth to the team for the 2012-13 season.

If confirmed in Las Vegas Gladyr his good form, the Hawks will not hesitate in taking their services quickly. The Ukrainian would clear, so, its future after reaching an agreement with the Manresa Assignia not to follow in the capital of the Bages , and embark on an exciting adventure that you had in mind the first year after being drafted, but Atlanta asked for patience seeing the potential to be further exploited.

Apparently Gladyr impressed the Hawks by averaging 14.5 points in the last eight days of this past season with the Ukrainian Manresa.

Read more news, notes and analysis on the Hawks at Peachtree Hoops.

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2012 NBA Summer League: Jeremy Hazell Expected To Play With Hawks

Former Seton Hall standout Jeremy Hazell is expected to take part in rookie mini-camp and then be part of the Atlanta Hawks entry in the 2012 Vegas Summer League. The Hawks are expected to host a rookie camp on July 9-12 with the summer league in Vegas beginning on July 13 and lasting through July 22.

Hazell took part in a free agent camp hosted by the Hawks last summer before being forced to seek other opportunities due to the NBA Lockout. Hazell played briefly in Spain and was in training camp with the Phoenix Suns once the lockout ended.

Given Atlanta's salary cap situation they will no doubt be looking for cheap and affordable talent which makes their rookie mini-camp and summer league entry that much more important. Hazell is a 6-foot-5 shooting guard that was a good scorer in college averaging just under 20 points per game during his senior year at Seton Hall.

For more on the Atlanta Hawks check out Peachtree Hoops. For more news and notes from around the NBA head over to SB Nation's NBA Basketball page.

Atlanta Hawks Exercise Third-Year Option On Larry Drew

Atlanta Hawks Executive Vice President/General Manager Rick Sund announced Friday that the Hawks have exercised Head Coach Larry Drew’s contract option for the 2012-13 season.

Hawks Offseason 2012: Larry Drew Still Waiting On Status For Next Season

Atlanta Hawks coach Larry Drew has a team option in his contract for the 2012-13 season but he still hasn't heard whether or not management intends to have him return. Drew's fate likely won't be decided until the Hawks make a decision regarding the general manager position.

Drew has been a mixed bag since taking over for Mike Woodson after the 2010 season. In 2011 the Hawks regressed in the regular season to 44 wins but upset the Orlando Magic in the first round of the playoffs. In 2012's lockout shortened season, Atlanta won 40 games while overcoming the loss of Al Horford for all but 11 of those contests. However, the Hawks string of second-round playoff appearances came to an end with a first-round exit to the Celtics despite entering the series with home court advantage.

Drew cites his relationship with his players as one of his biggest strengths and those relationships no doubt helped him secure the job in 2010.

"That's something I take a lot of pride in and spent a lot of time talking about and trying to work on," he said. "Player relationships are so important on this level, how you deal with your best player all the way down to the guy who might not even dress out during games. I thought I did a good job with that. I thought my staff did a good job with that."

The question is are those relationships strong enough to keep him as the coach through next season?

For more on the Atlanta Hawks check out Peachtree Hoops. For more news and notes from around the NBA head over to SB Nation's NBA Basketball page.

Hawks Offseason 2012: Al Horford To Continue Rehab For Injured Pectoral

Hawks Center Al Horford made his return to the court in Game 4 of Atlanta's first round loss to the Boston Celtics. Horford looked shaky in his first game out but settled in over the next two games to remind Hawks fans of exactly what the club missed after he went down with a torn pectoral muscle on January 11 against the Indiana Pacers.

Following the team's loss in Game 6 of the playoffs, Horford offered up no regrets for waiting until Game 4 to return saying simply that he wasn't ready. Originally he had ruled himself out of the entire first-round series but elected to return once the Hawks had their backs against the wall.

Now that the season is over Horford will continue rehab on his injury with hopes of being 100 percent by the start of next season's training camp.

"I'm very limited," he said. "I made a lot of progress in two weeks but I'm about 50 or 60 percent strength." "I knew I had a ways to go. Even when I came back, I felt limited. I gave it all I had for the team and for the city. Our city had big expectations for us. It was unfortunate we had a number of injuries and couldn't do what we wanted."

For more on the Atlanta Hawks check out Peachtree Hoops. For more news and notes from around the NBA head over to SB Nation's NBA Basketball page.

Hawks Offseason 2012: Josh Smith Sidesteps Questions About His Future

Citing that he could be fined for discussing his trade request with the media, Josh Smith sidestepped questions about his future with the Atlanta Hawks offering up only that he has one year remaining on his contract.

"I'm under contract for one more year with the Hawks"

The first question to likely be answered this offseason will be who will be calling the shots for the club in the near future. General manager Rick Sund's contract expires on June 30 and whoever assumes the position on that date will no doubt have Smith's situation at the top of his to do list.

Smith reportedly requested a trade sometime last season and then reiterated his demand around the trade deadline. The Hawks must decide whether or not they can afford to re-sign Smith or whether he would be willing to ink a new deal with the club. If not then Atlanta would likely look to trade him in an effort to get something in return for him before he simply walked away for nothing.

However, Smith's contract is affordable and it is debatable that any trade will return equal value for a player with Smith's talents. Atlanta could put off any such decision until the trade deadline or roll the dice with Smith the next offseason.

For more on the Atlanta Hawks check out Peachtree Hoops. For more news and notes from around the NBA head over to SB Nation's NBA Basketball page.

Atlanta Hawks Offseason: Salary Cap Situation Tight For 2012-13 Season

The Atlanta Hawks currently have six players under contract with the team for next season. The salaries of those players equals out to about $61 million which is slightly above the estimated cap figure of $58 million. Therefore that will leave the Hawks about $10 million to sign seven to nine players while remaining out of the luxury tax. If the Hawks are willing to pay the tax then that $10 million figure can go up.

Atlanta will pay the tax in 2012 for the first time in team history as they went slightly over the line. Atlanta made up for the move by selling off an extra second round selection for the upcoming draft at the trade deadline. Atlanta foray into the tax this year was met with criticism given that the players pushing the Hawks over the line were those like Jerry Stackhouse, Erick Dampier and Jason Collins.

All of those players were called upon to play throughout the season but it is debatable that any of their value's was worth their salary plus the tax penalty that was incurred.

For more on the Atlanta Hawks check out Peachtree Hoops. For more news and notes from around the NBA head over to SB Nation's NBA Basketball page.

Atlanta Hawks Offseason: Many Questions Await Team This Summer

The Atlanta Hawks are just days removed from their Game 6 loss to the Boston Celtics that ended its season. The Hawks enter an offseason full of uncertainty as the contracts of both general manager Rick Sund and head coach Larry Drew are set to expire at the end of June.

In addition to the management questions, nine of the 15 players on the active roster are free agents. Starters Jeff Teague, Joe Johnson, Marvin Williams, Josh Smith and Al Horford along with reserve center Zaza Pachulia are the only Hawks players that are under contract for next season.

Among those that are set to hit free agency are guard Kirk Hinrich, forward Tracy McGrady and center Jason Collins. Veterans Jannero Pargo, Willie Green and Vladimir Radmanovic along with rookie Ivan Johnson also will be free to sign with any other team this offseason.

For more on the Atlanta Hawks check out Peachtree Hoops. For more news and notes from around the NBA head over to SB Nation's NBA Basketball page.

Atlanta Hawks Offseason: Michael Gearon, Ivan Johnson Fined Following Game 6 Loss

Atlanta Hawks owner Michael Gearon and rookie forward Ivan Johnson have been fined by the league for unrelated incidents surrounding the Hawks' Game 6 loss to the Celtics.

Gearon was fined $35,000 for criticizing NBA officials and making negative comments about an opposing player prior to Game 6 against the Celtics.

"We don't get any calls, which I know everybody always hears. But I'll give you a stat. Last night, we are playing this old physical team. They are old. I know what happens when you play basketball: Old guys foul. (Kevin) Garnett is the dirtiest guy in the league. We are playing Boston last night and they had two fouls the whole first half. We had five times that and we're athletic."

Ivan Johnson was fined $25,000 for making an obscene gesture at a fan as he was leaving the court following Atlanta's Game 6 loss to the Celtics.

For more on the Atlanta Hawks check out Peachtree Hoops. For more news and notes from around the NBA head over to SB Nation's NBA Basketball Page.

Atlanta Hawks Offseason: Trail Blazers Interested In Hawks GM Rick Sund, According To Report

The Portland Trail Blazers are reportedly interested in Atlanta's Rick Sund for its vacant general manager position.