The Hawks are in position to have four selections — two first- and second-round picks — at this year’s NBA draft. They likely will get an extra pick in each round as part of separate deals.
If the Rockets make the playoffs, the Hawks will get their first-round pick. The selection, which is top-14 protected, would come from the Nets as part of the Joe Johnson trade, a selection they acquired from Houston.
Entering Friday, with seven games remaining, the Rockets have not clinched a playoff berth, but are seventh in the Western Conference. They have a three-game lead over the Lakers for the eighth and final playoff spot and a 3 1/2-game lead over the Jazz for ninth.
Should the Hawks not get the pick this year, it will be top-14 protected again from 2014-16. If the Hawks don’t receive a first-round pick from the Nets, via the Rockets, by 2016 then the Hawks will receive the Rockets’ second-round pick and cash in 2017.
The Hawks also are in position to get the Rockets’ second-round pick, which is top-40 protected. That pick comes from a July 2009 trade that sent David Anderson to Houston.
It is unlikely that the Hawks would draft four players June 27 who all will suit up for them next season. However, the additional selections allow for flexibility and trade ability in what will be a busy offseason.
The Hawks have seven expiring contracts, including those of Josh Smith, Zaza Pachulia, Kyle Korver, Devin Harris, Anthony Tolliver, Johan Petro and Dahntay Jones. They have three players with guaranteed contracts next season in Al Horford, Lou Williams and John Jenkins.
Two other players are eligible for qualifying offers in Jeff Teague and Ivan Johnson. There are team options on DeShawn Stevenson and Mike Scott. Recently signed Shelvin Mack has a non-guaranteed contract for next season.
Harris, Jenkins out: Harris and Jenkins did not play Friday against the 76ers. Harris is recovering from a platelet-rich plasma injection in the troublesome toe on his left foot. Jenkins missed his fourth game with a mild concussion. Jenkins told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Friday that he will be available for Saturday's game at the Spurs.
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