New-Look Hawks Set For Opener Against Rockets

ATLANTA (AP) – An offseason of change led to a preseason of experiments for the Atlanta Hawks.

Finally, coach Larry Drew must decide on a starting lineup.

The Hawks open their season on Friday night against James Harden and the Houston Rockets. Drew hasn’t announced a starting lineup from the long list of combinations he sampled in the preseason.

All-star guard Joe Johnson and forward Marvin Williams were traded in the offseason. New general manager Danny Ferry’s additions include Devin Harris, Lou Williams, Kyle Korver, Anthony Morrow and rookie John Jenkins.

Three returning starters – point guard Jeff Teague, center Al Horford and forward Josh Smith – could be joined by Harris and Korver in Drew’s first lineup.

Drew says his team lacks size but has good shooters and will emphasize strong defense.