Hawks Send 4 Players to Kings for Bibby

Sacramento Kings guard Mike Bibby stands on the court as time runs out in the Denver Nuggets' 120-115 victory over the Kings in an NBA basketball game in Denver in this April 4, 2007 file photo. Atlanta Hawks owner Michael Gearon Jr. said Saturday. Feb. 16, 2008 that the Hawks will send four players to the Kings in exchange for Bibby. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski, File)

ATLANTA (AP) — The Atlanta Hawks traded four players and a draft pick on Saturday for Mike Bibby, the point guard they hope will end the league's longest streak without a playoff appearance.

The Hawks sent starting point guard Anthony Johnson, 2007 first-round pick Shelden Williams, backup point guard Tyronn Lue, veteran forward Lorenzen Wright and a 2008 second-round pick to the Kings.

The trade is pending league approval and physicals.

Hawks spokeman Arthur Triche said Bibby is expected to join the team in Los Angeles on Monday, where he will have his physical. The Hawks play at the Lakers on Tuesday night.

Bibby, a 10-year veteran, missed the start of the season with a thumb injury but is averaging 13.5 points and 5.0 assists in 15 games.

"I want to thank Mike for his terrific all-around play," Kings president Geoff Petrie said in a statement. "He's had a great run here as a King and has participated in and contributed to some great moments on the court and I wish him all the best."

One of the Hawks' owners, Michael Gearon Jr., said his team's new backcourt of Bibby and All-Star Joe Johnson "will be as good as any in the East."

"I think Bibby will be one of the top three point guards in the East," Gearon said.

"He's capable of going one-on-one, hitting clutch shots, breaking defenses and leading this team."

The Hawks, in ninth place in the Eastern Conference and percentage points behind the eighth and final playoff spot, are trying to make the postseason for the first time since 1999.

Also on Saturday, the Kings requested waivers on forward Justin Williams and guard Dahntay Jones.

"We're excited about adding another young frontcourt player who was the fifth pick of the 2006 draft in Williams, along with some experienced veterans to the team," Petrie said. "We're looking forward to seeing how they integrate in with the rest of our roster."

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