Wright Enjoying a Bit of Payback

For forward Lorenzen Wright, Atlanta’s 20-point victory over the Clippers wasn’t just a routine win. Not after spending the first three seasons of his NBA career with the Clippers before being traded to the Hawks once it was determined he wouldn’t receive a long-term multimillion-dollar contract from owner Donald Sterling.

“It felt good,” said Wright, who had a season-high 28 points and grabbed seven rebounds in the Hawks’ 108-88 victory. “They beat us the first time in Los Angeles and that hurt. I wasn’t starting then, but I was ready this game. I was going to do everything in my power to help us win.”

In his last 17 games, Wright is averaging 19 points and eight rebounds. He has been shooting nearly 47% from the field and has provided Atlanta with a low-post scoring threat to complement defense-minded center Dikembe Mutombo.

Atlanta assistant coach Rick Mahorn said Wright has worked hard to improve his game.

“He’s getting an opportunity to play and he’s enjoying the game again,” Mahorn said. “He’s deserving of what he’s getting. He gives us a lot of flexibility at power forward and center.”

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Dominique Wilkins’ jersey-retirement ceremony was a success for the Hawks, who have been struggling drawing fans to Philips Arena. However, many in the crowd of 19,445, the team’s first sellout of the season, booed when Atlanta team President Stan Kasten was introducing Wilkins, who was traded to the Clippers in 1993.

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Swingman Corey Maggette suffered eye trauma when he was hit in the head by Mutombo’s elbow in the second half. Maggette was taken to an area hospital for tests, including a CT scan. He is expected to travel with the team today to Indianapolis but is questionable for Monday’s game against the Pacers.