Craig Claxton

Claxton entered training camp last season as the starting point guard, but never played a minute. Claxton has missed most of the last two seasons with knee and wrist injuries. Claxton played with the Hawks' summer league team and is trying to be the primary backup to Bibby. Expect stiff competition from several players for that role.

Claxton never fully recovered from knee injuries last year and never got the chance to lead the Hawks and their talented young wing players. The selection of Acie Law with 11th overall pick in the draft looms as an ominous sign for Claxton’s long-term role, but if healthy, he’ll be a capable floor-general who usually takes care of the ball. We’re not ready to anoint Law just yet, so keep an eye on Claxton’s role and playing time during preseason.

Maybe Atlanta management regrets passing on Chris Paul in last year’s draft. (Ya think?) Bringing in Paul’s running mate from Oklahoma City won’t fully address that gaffe, but it’s a step in the right direction. We love Claxton’s fit with this team; Speedy’s up-tempo style should mesh really well with Joe Johnson, Marvin Williams and company, creating lots of opportunities for breaks and open looks (and that means plenty of dimes). The only thing that prevents Claxton from moving up further on this list is durability; he’s a good bet to miss a bunch of games here and there.

Claxton is the more talented of the two Golden State point guards, but given the amount of cash the team threw at Derek Fisher, Fisher may get the job. He established himself as a floor leader for Golden State last season when given the opportunity to start because of an injury to Nick Van Exel. Fisher was signed to a six-year contract in the offseason and is expected to start at point guard, but Claxton will push him for playing time.

The signing of free agent Derek Fisher means Claxton will be begin the season as the primary backup at point guard. He posted good numbers both off the bench and as a starter in 2003-04. Claxton averaged 13.6 points, 5.3 assists and 1.97 steals in 29 starts, establishing himself as a floor leader and will be ready should Fisher falter.