The lobbying has begun.

Hawks coach Mike Budenholzer, who will lead the Eastern Conference in the NBA All-Star Game Sunday, has been asked several times whether he plans to play all four Hawks at the same time. So far, Budenholzer has managed to deflect the question.

He couldn’t any longer.

“If he didn’t do it, that would be messed up,” said Jeff Teague after practice Saturday. “We whisper some things in his ear.”

Paul Millsap added: “If he doesn’t do it, he’ll for sure hear about it.”

And so, being pressed one more time, Budenholzer relented.

“I guess I better do it,” Budenholzer said. “At some point it will probably happen. I think it’s a great honor for all four of them to be here together and for them to be on the court at one point just seems like it makes sense. Hopefully I can figure out how to make that happen.”

It appears that Al Horford, Kyle Korver, Millsap and Teague will get on the court at the same time. The only question that remains is who will play alongside them.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Atlanta Hawks guard Kobe Bufkin dribbles away from Cleveland Cavaliers guard Sam Merrill in the first half of an NBA basketball game, Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2024, in Cleveland. (David Dermer/AP)

Credit: AP

Featured

In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason.Getz@ajc.com