Hawks Open Camp With Unique Lineups

Sep 30, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks head coach Mike Budenholzer poses with a British flag during media day at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports

Warning: Way too early roster analysis coming. 

The Hawks opened training camp in Athens, Georgia on Tuesday, and when they did, they took to the court in certain, defined 5-man units. According to the AJC’s Chris Vivlamore (who was on the scene), the breakdown looked like this:

• 1st team – Jeff Teague, Kyle Korver, DeMarre Carroll, Paul Millsap, Al Horford
• 2nd team – Dennis Schröder, John Jenkins, James Johnson, Pero Antic, Elton Brand

Obviously, it is insanely early to be discussing lineup construction, but this does present a couple of interesting scenarios. First of all, the lack of wing depth on this team has been well-documented, both in this space and elsewhere, and seeing DeMarre Carroll and Kyle Korver “starting” together would be incredibly interesting. There is certainly an argument to be made for Korver as the team’s best shooting guard, but deploying both guys leaves a considerable gap behind them.

James Johnson, a non-roster invitee to camp, is listed as the “2nd team” small forward, but it’s tough to read too deeply into that. The Hawks also have Damien Wilkins, Adonis Thomas, and David Lighty competing for a roster spot on the wing, and it’s unclear who, if any, of these guys will be kept.

Elsewhere, there aren’t any additional surprises in these lineups. The only mild one would be the sight of Pero Antic on the 2nd unit instead of Gustavo Ayon, but each guy is considered a lock for a roster spot, and they’ll battle for 4th big man minutes throughout the season.

We will monitor all of the roster situations moving forward, but things are fully underway up in Athens. In addition, the Hawks will be holding an “open” practice at Philips Arena on Saturday afternoon (5:00 pm), and all are invited to see a glimpse of the new-look roster. Come out and join us!