SLAM DUNKS: G Joe Johnson (20.2 ppg, 6.5 apg, 1.3 spg) proved he could thrive independently of the Phoenix Suns' run-and-gun style, leading the Hawks in scoring and assists in his first season in Atlanta. ... F-C Zaza Pachulia (11.7, 7.9 rpg) was a very impactful addition for the 2005-06 campaign. The 6-11 European started all 78 games he played, doubled his point production and led the club in rebounds. ... G-F Josh Smith (11.3, 6.6, 2.6 bpg) did more than just amaze fans with high-flying slams. He was the fourth-leading shot-blocker in the league and developed a consistent perimeter shot.

AIRBALLS: The absence of a true point guard really plagued the Hawks, who were third in the league in turnovers (15.1) last season. Johnson signed with Atlanta to fill the club's void at the point, but it did not work. G Tyronn Lue (11.0, 3.1) has been a backup for much of his career and G Salim Stoudamire (9.7) was more of a shooter, so neither was the answer. When Atlanta appeared to have its point guard issue resolved, Claxton suffered a left hand injury in September. He was sidelined five weeks, preventing him and his teammates from building cohesion during the preseason. ... Another area Atlanta struggled in was defense. The Hawks were tied for fourth-worst in points allowed (102.0). GUESSWORK: With Harrington out of the picture, who will step up and assume the role as the second option to Johnson? The Hawks also lack a consistent low-post scoring presence. F Marvin Williams seems fit for the job but may still lack the strength and necessary post moves.

THINKING CAP: With Johnson already enjoying his max contract, the Hawks signed Claxton to a four-year, $25 million deal and still are comfortably under the cap. However, Atlanta continues to be plagued by its lack of commitment toward producing a winning team.

D-LEAGUE CANDIDATE: F Kaniel Dickens

THE COACH SAYS: "We won 26 games. Fifteen of 25 we lost by five points or less, 10 of them we lost by three points. I've got to get them over the hump."