The injury-riddled Hawks received some good news Friday as two key players returned to practice and could play in tonight's game against the Spurs.

Guard Jason Terry, who injured his left hamstring in Monday's loss to the Clippers, participated in the first half of practice and spent the remainder of the workout icing the hamstring.

"It feels much better," he said. "It was great to be able to go out there and break a sweat today. It was much better than yesterday when I couldn't get into high gear so I couldn't play."

Forward Toni Kukoc, who suffered a leg injury against the Clippers, participated in practice from start to finish and appeared to run the floor effortlessly and make all the plays. Kukoc could be activated off the injured list and play tonight.

Forward Shareef Abdur-Rahim sat out Friday with a strained right knee and is questionable tonight.

"I got kicked, I think, and the knee twisted at the same time," he said. "I was limping pretty badly [Thursday] night but I'm hoping it will be OK by game time."

Depending on the availability of the regulars, Kruger could start a backcourt of Terry and Emanual Davis. If Terry can't go, Jacque Vaughn will make his third start of the season.