Michael Hunt of the Milwaukee-Journal sentinel reports that the Bucks were looking to shake up their roster. After last season?s disappointing finish, Glen Robinson has been rumored to be on the trading block all summer. The Hawks pulled the trigger on the deal yesterday. Robinson went to the Hawks in exchange for Toni Kukoc, Leon Smith and a 2003 1st round pick.

Giving up a 20-point scorer for an aging forward, cap fodder and a future pick may not seem like a good trade on the surface, but Hunt explains why the trade was good for the Bucks. First, it frees time for Tim Thomas to step into the starting lineup. Also, it frees up money. The Bucks clipped almost $2 million from this years? payroll and saved over $15 million by exchanging Robinson?s contract for Kukoc?s.

Also, by acquiring the best of Atlanta?s two 1st-round picks, the Bucks give themselves a chance to add some young talent and allow George Karl to assert more of his personality into the team. Finally, by exchanging a ?shoot-first? player for a more versatile role-player, the Bucks expect the team chemistry to improve.

Michael Lee of the Atlanta Journal Constitution reports on the Hawks side of the trade.

By adding Robinson, the Hawks have created their own version of the ?big three?. Robinson, Jason terry and Shareef Abdur-Rahim combined to average over 60 points per game last season. This offensive boost may be just what the Hawks need to help them back up their guarantee to the fans of a playoff appearance this coming season.  

"It was a high price," Hawks President Pete Babcock said, "But we got the best player possible. We feel good about it. He addresses one of our weaknesses, which was perimeter scoring. He gives us another threat."

"You're adding a big-time offensive talent, a third guy that can really score," Hawks coach Lon Kruger said. "This is an indication to the players that management is committed to taking that extra step."

Robinson does come with some baggage. He was charged last month with domestic battery, assault and illegal possession of a firearm after police said he pushed his former fiancee and demanded to be let in her house.

For Babcock, who often stays away from players with character issues, the trade is somewhat uncharacteristic. But he said he was impressed with the way Robinson responded by apologizing for his actions.

"He accepted responsibility," Babcock said. "Some athletes don't accept their responsibilities. That's a positive sign."