Hornets present a test of progress

Exhibition games are rarely important, and tonight's game against Charlotte at Philips Arena is no different.

But for a Hawks team hoping to improve after two disastrous seasons, Charlotte could serve as a measuring stick. The Hornets have won seven straight regular-season games in the series by an average of 16 points and routed the Hawks in an exhibition game last October.

The Hawks will benefit from the expected return of center Theo Ratliff, who completed his third practice in two days without inflicting further damage to the tendon in his right hip. Coaches liked his timing and quick, decisive defensive rotations.