Johnson Won't Sign Extension With Hawks

Hawks forward Joe Johnson will not sign a contract extension with the team.

Johnson told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that he will play out the final year of his deal and become an unrestricted free agent next summer.

Atlanta offered Johnson a four-year, $60 million extension this summer. He decided not to sign the new deal after considering it.

"My sole focus right now is on this team and what we're trying to accomplish this season," Johnson said. "I have some goals set for this season for my team and I have some individual goals set for myself as well. I really feel like this team is ready to take that step to the next level. I also feel like I can be one of the elite players in this league, I feel like I'm right there, so it's going to be an exciting year."

Via Atlanta Journal-Constitution

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Woodson: Conference Finals Are Next Step For Hawks

Hawks coach Mike Woodson has the Eastern Conference Finals on his mind entering the new season.

The team lost in the first round of the playoffs two seasons ago, and bowed out in the semifinals last spring.

"We're at a stage now with our team where I think that's the logical thing, taking the next step," Woodson told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. "And now that next step is trying to get out of the second round of the playoffs and trying to challenge for a spot in the Eastern Conference finals. That's the next step."

The Hawks have improved their win total in each of the last four seasons.

Via Atlanta Journal-Constitution

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Josh Smith Needs Seven Stiches On Left Hand

Josh Smith needed seven stitches to close a gash on his left hand (between his index and middle fingers) and will spend the next 10 days out of action, by doctor’s orders.

Smith suffered the cut while playing a pickup game with several of his Hawks teammates and other pros at the Hawks' practice facility, working out in anticipation of training camp. Smith said he’ll be fine for the start of training camp Sept. 29 but he will spend the days leading up to camp with his left hand heavily wrapped.

“It was a nasty gash,” Smith said Wednesday. “It was bad. I could see all the way through there. It was split open, like somebody took some scissors and just cut it right open. But it looked a lot worse than it really is. I’ve got to keep it wrapped up for the next 10 days and then I’m good to go.”

Via Atlanta Journal-Constitution

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