Hawks Aim For Conference Finals With Slimmer Smith

ATLANTA – Point guard Jeff Teague will be the only new starter when the Hawks open their season on Tuesday at New Jersey, but some of the veterans have new looks.

Strong forward Josh Smith has lost about 25 pounds. He is down to about 225 pounds on his 6-foot-9 frame.

Several Atlanta players have said small forward Marvin Williams looks like he’s an inch taller after offseason back surgery.

Backup center Jason Collins has added more muscle in his shoulders and chest as he prepares for his battles with Orlando’s Dwight Howard.

Smith, Williams, center Al Horford and five-time All-Star Joe Johnson are returning starters. Johnson’s 18.2 points per game last season led the team but ended his streak of five straight seasons averaging more than 20 points per game.