According to a report from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the Atlanta Hawks forward Josh Smith was kicked out from practice by head coach Larry Drew on Tuesday, and has been suspended for tonight’s game against the Brooklyn Nets.
“Josh and I discussed the issue and he understood and accepted this course of action. We are confident that he will respond positively, learn from this experience and come back with a renewed sense of purpose to the team moving forward,” Hawks general manager Danny Ferry said
Smith, 27, is averaging 16.5 points per game. He’s also blocked 2.3 shots and id also grabbing 8.3 rebounds, dishing 3.7 assists and 1.3 steals in 35 minutes per contest.
The Hawks started the season winning 20 of their first 30 games, but have now lost six out of their last seven games. Smith will be a free agent this summer, and even though he could walk for nothing, if he chooses not to sign with the Hawks, the team has said they have no plans on trading him.
Obviously a lot could change between now and next month’s trade deadline.
