The Suns have a lot of work in front of them this summer. But they will helplessly watch the first domino ? OK, make that ping-pong ball ? that will help decide what comes next fall tonight while sitting on the couch with their collective fingers crossed.

Phoenix could wind up with as high as the fourth overall pick when the 2007 NBA draft lottery is held today in New Jersey, giving them all sorts of options moving forward. Or, the Atlanta Hawks could retain the selection if it is among the top three, forcing the Suns to wait another year to complete the controversial 2005 Joe Johnson/Boris Diaw deal.

The odds lean toward Phoenix by nearly a 2-to-1 margin. The Hawks have a 37.8 percent chance of ending up third or higher when the ping-pong balls finally stop tonight.

?Without a doubt, this would be a key asset for us,? Phoenix coach and general manager Mike D?Antoni said. ?This is a deep draft with a lot of talented players in the top 10. There are guys at several positions who could have an impact right away, and if we?re there we?d certainly get a good player.

?Before we decide what other steps we?d take regarding free agency and any other personnel stuff, we have to see where we stand in the draft and what we want to do.?