Game Thread: Exhibition season begins tonight

Oct. 1, 2012 - Atlanta - John Jenkins during a three point drill. Atlanta Hawks practice on the practice court at Philips Arena. BOB ANDRES BANDRES@AJC.COM

Credit: Chris Vivlamore

Credit: Chris Vivlamore

Oct. 1, 2012 - Atlanta - John Jenkins during a three point drill. Atlanta Hawks practice on the practice court at Philips Arena. BOB ANDRES BANDRES@AJC.COM

Let there be basketball.

The Hawks open the 2014-15 season with their first exhibition game tonight against the Pelicans. The game will mark the debut of the new-look court featuring the Pac Man logo.

The game will neither be on television or radio so I will commit to posting comments on this blog throughout the contest.

Just a quick couple of things to know for tonight after morning shoot-around:

Oct. 1, 2012 - Atlanta - John Jenkins during a three point drill. Atlanta Hawks practice on the practice court at Philips Arena. BOB ANDRES BANDRES@AJC.COM

Credit: Chris Vivlamore

icon to expand image

Credit: Chris Vivlamore

* DeMarre Carroll is expected to play after twisting his right ankle in practice Saturday. The forward should start if pre-game warmup goes well. He participated in the shoot-around and was walking without a limp although he did say there was some discomfort. "It's part of playing basketball but I think I'll be good," Carroll said. "Just some tightness."

* Kyle Korver will not be available. He missed Saturday's practice for personal reasons with his wife expecting the couple's second child. There is no official word as to whether there is another 3-point specialist.

* With Korver out, John Jenkins will get the start at shooting guard. It's a big season for Jenkins as he is coming off back surgery. He declared himself 100 percent and eager to get back on the court.

* In addition to Jenkins, the starting lineup will consist of Jeff Teague, Carroll (if healthy), Paul Millsap and Elton Brand. As I reported Saturday, Al Horford (pectoral muscle), Kent Bazemore (foot) and Pero Antic (broken nose) will not play.