Ivan Johnson is doubtful for tonight's game according to the AJC's Chris Vivlamore because of a stomach illness. Assistant coach Lester Conner is also suffering the effects and may also miss the game.
Ivan Johnson doubtful for tonight's game against Cavs due to stomach illness. Also may be without assistant Lester Conner. #ATLHawks
— Chris Vivlamore (@ajchawks) December 28, 2012
The Hawks will also be without guard Devin Harris who remained behind in Atlanta with a foot injury. Johnson's absence is troubling given the success that the Cavs had against the Hawks on the boards in the previous meeting. At times this season, Larry Drew has opted to use a three-man rotation across the frontcourt with Josh Smith, Al Horford and Zaza Pachulia. That scenario seems likely for tonight but also moves Mike Scott and Johan Petro a notch up the depth chart.
Larry Drew said that he was unsure of tonight's starting lineup and wasn't sure which game of the back-to-back that he would rest DeShawn Stevenson.