Bucks vs. Hawks: Adreian Payne active, Pero Antic inactive

Despite a "probable" distinction in leading up to Friday's game, Pero Antic will be inactive for the Atlanta Hawks against the Milwaukee Bucks. Antic has been battling an ankle issue that kept him out of action against the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday, and even with that positive spin, he was considered unlikely to see minutes against Milwaukee. John Jenkins will join him as the other inactive for the game.

With Antic on the shelf, 2014 first round pick Adreian Payne will be on the active list for the game. Payne has not appeared in a game for the Hawks since being selected in June's draft, but he has performed admirably during stints in the D-League. Admittedly, he is unlikely to see court time on Friday, with the presence of Al Horford, Paul Millsap, Mike Scott and Mike Muscala as a deterrent, but it will be nice to see the former Michigan State Spartan in uniform.

The Atlanta Hawks have an opportunity to join the Toronto Raptors atop the Eastern Conference standings with a win on Friday evening. Stay tuned.