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There is a common theme among the six players invited to participate in training camp by the Atlanta Hawks. All but Royal Ivey are primarily forwards which is a sign that the Hawks might not be satisfied with their depth at the position. There is a good mix of veterans like Damien Wilkins and James Johnson along with younger less experienced players like David Lighty and Adonis Thomas.
Atlanta has 14 players under contract and two players that are on non-guaranteed deals. Given Lou Williams uncertain return, there will be plenty of opportunities for the non-roster invites to stick should they impress in training camp.
Damien Wilkins - SF
61 gms, 6.4 pts, 1.7 reb, 46% fg, PER 12.5 *With Philadelphia
Wilkins spent the 2011 season with the Hawks and was with the 76ers last season. He is 33 years old and brings nine-years of NBA experience to training camp. He has been in Atlanta for several weeks working out and is someone to keep an eye on for a potential roster spot as camp wears on.
James Johnson
54 gms, 5.1 pts, 2.7 reb, 41% fg, PER 10.2 *With Sacramento
Johnson was drafted with the 16th pick in the 2009 NBA Draft by Chicago but has bounced around during his four-year career. His best season statistically came in 2012 when he averaged 9.1 points and 4.7 rebounds in 62 games for the Toronto Raptors. He spent last season in Sacramento.
Eric Dawson
29 gms, 17.2 pts, 10.6 reb, 56% fg *2012 stats with Austin Toros NBA D-League
Dawson is 29 years old and played last season in the Dominican Republic. His familiarity with the coaching staff is reason enough to keep an eye on him. He has previously been to training camp with the Spurs and has spent time with the Austin Toros. His performance in the D-League earned him a call up to San Antonio in 2012.
David Lighty
35 gms, 12.5 pts, 3.7 reb, 2.7 ast *Nantere France
Lighty spent last season in France and went to summer league with the Cleveland Cavaliers. He isn't a clear cut small forward but could play there in certain alignments. He has a nice shot and is rated as an ok defender although at 6-6 he is more ideally suited to play shooting guard. Could compete with Jared Cunningham for playing time during the preseason.
Royal Ivey
53 gms, 3.2 pts, 1.1 reb, 43% fg, PER 8.1 *With Philadelphia
Ivey was drafted by the Atlanta Hawks in the second round of the 2004 NBA Draft. He appeared in 188 games for the Hawks at the point guard position. Ivey spent last season in Philadelphia where he played in 53 games including five starts.
Ivey is in camp to compete with rookie Dennis Schröder and Shelvin Mack whose contract for the season is non guaranteed.
Adonis Thomas
36 gms, 11.7 pts, 4.5 reb, 40% fg, PER 15.6 *With the University of Memphis
Thomas left Memphis after his sophomore season and went undrafted. He played in summer league with the Hawks and is seen as a guy with a lot of potential but someone who still hasn't put it all together. At 6-7, 240lbs he has good size for the small forward position but can he make a mark during training camp?