Williams could return, McGrady out for Hawks vs. T-Wolves

By Chris Vivlamore

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

The Hawks could get Marvin Williams back for tonight’s game against the Timberwolves. The return of Tracy McGrady won’t come until at least Monday.

Williams missed the past three games with a sprained left ankle. The forward took part in the team’s shoot-around Saturday morning and will participate in pre-game warm-ups before a final decision is made.

“I’m doing much better,” Williams said. “I’m pretty optimistic about tonight. I will come out and warm up but I’m pretty sure I will give it a go.”

Coach Larry Drew also said he is optimistic Williams will play.

Williams’ return will help fill the void left by the loss of Al Horford, who will miss three to four months with a torn pectoral muscle.

“Being a starter and just having another body [will help],” Drew said of Williams. “[Thursday] night without the services of Al, Tracy and Marvin made it a little tough from a rotational standpoint. Having been here, Marvin knows exactly what we are doing. Marvin is a guy that we can move around at different positions. He gives us added versatility.”

McGrady, who missed the past two games with back spasms, has been ruled out for tonight’s game. He attended the team shoot-around, but did not participate. McGrady saw a back specialist on Friday and reported no further damage than the herniated disk he has played with for years.

“I should be fine,” McGrady said. “I just needed a couple days of rest to re-evaluate my symptoms in my back. Take a couple days, do some stretching and do the necessary things to get myself back on the basketball court. I should be back Monday.”

Drew said he has not yet decided who will start at center against the Timberwolves in place of Horford. That decision will be made near game time, he said. Zaza Pachulia started Thursday and had 10 points and 10 rebounds in 32 minutes.