Adreian Payne recalled by Atlanta Hawks from D-League

The Atlanta Hawks have recalled rookie forward/center Adreian Payne from the Fort Wayne Mad Ants of the NBA's Development League.

Payne appeared in a pair games for the Mad Ants and averaged 12 points, 10 rebounds, two assists in just over 31 minutes of action. He finished with 17 points and 13 rebounds in Saturday's win by the Mad Ants over the Erie Bayhawks. Payne went 4-9 from the field on Saturday but was 9-11 from the free throw line.

The plan was for Payne to play in a couple of games for Fort Wayne to help knock the rust off after being out of action due to plantar fasciitis in his left foot. The Mad Ants don't play again until Friday so there was no point in leaving him in the D-League.

No word on what Payne's role will be after his return. He still appears to be behind Mike Scott, Pero Antic, Elton Brand and Mike Muscala in Atlanta's front court rotation.