A brief look at the Hawks after 40 games, listed in order of minutes played per game:
Joe Johnson, SG
High-volume, low-percentage shooting bogged down offense early. ... Eventually had right elbow surgery and missed just 15 days. ... Started slowly upon return but has found form.
Josh Smith, PF/SF
Provides energy with blocked shots, steals and help defense. ... Controls games by rebounding then starting and/or finishing fast breaks. ... Has dramatically improved his outside shooting. ... Playing small forward (14 starts) has exacerbated problems with shot selection and turnovers but is more than holding his own at position.
Al Horford, C/PF
Atlanta's most consistent player. ... Has added a devastatingly effective mid-range jump shot that's enhanced when he moves to power forward . ... Probably Atlanta's best all-around defender regularly handles guards on switches. ... Playing with bruised right hand.
Jamal Crawford, SG/PG
Reigning Sixth Man Award winner has found his form in last two weeks after slow start and back injury. ... Regularly provides lift with scoring punch off the bench. ... Assist and free-throw rates are up from last season. ... Defensive liability, especially against pick-and-rolls.
Mike Bibby, PG
Smart veteran has knack for finding open space for shot. ... Deadly spot-up shooter is making 49 percent percent of 3-point attempts. ... Low turnover rate. ... Diminishing lateral quickness makes him target for opponents to attack off the dribble.
Marvin Williams, SF
Early stretch of consistent play has been halted by injuries. ... Has missed nine games with knee and back injuries. ... Has benefited from motion offense. ... Solid perimeter defender and only natural small forward in rotation.
Mo Evans, SG/SF
Missed eight games with soreness in surgically-repaired right knee. ... Has lacked usual explosiveness and quickness. ... Offensive production and efficiency have declined significantly but he's found shooting stroke lately.
Zaza Pachulia, C/PF
Effective rebounder and tough defender has been inconsistent. ... Offensive efficiency has dipped as he struggles to finish at rim and turnover rate has increased. ... Came on strong late in 2009-10.
Josh Powell, PF
Veteran has been in and out of the rotation while appearing in 33 games. ... Hasn't provided hoped for post defense and rebounding.
Jason Collins, C
After playing little last season, 7-footer has started 14 games in "big" lineup against opponents with strong post presence. ... Compensates for lack of athleticism with good positioning and toughness.
Damien Wilkins G/F
Signed after Johnson's surgery, released last week, then re-signed to 10-day contract. ... Used as situational wing defender.
Jeff Teague, PG
Second-year guard hasn't been able to crack regular rotation. ... Team's quickest on-ball defender. ... Slight improvement in offensive numbers from rookie season.
Etan Thomas, C
Veteran has appeared in four games for 18 minutes.
Jordan Crawford, SG
Rookie first-round pick has appeared in 12 games for 116 minutes.
Pape Sy, PG/SG
Rookie second-round pick hasn't been active for any games and currently is assigned to Utah Flash of NBA Development League.
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