It has been a long time in the making, but All-Star center Theo Ratliff may be ready to play in Saturday's exhibition game with Charlotte.  Ratliff has not played in the preseason after struggling with an inflamed tendon that connects his hip and groin. He experienced soreness when he tried to practice Monday, according to trainer Wally Blase, and was later treated by a chiropractor.

The bad news for Hawks fans is that Alan Henderson's injury could keep him out of the lineup until opening night.