The Hawks' pending deal for Joe Johnson hit a snag Tuesday because one of the team owners, Steve Belkin, has not signed off on completing it, two people familiar with the situation said.

The team's other owners and management are in favor of the deal. Belkin plays a pivotal role as the team's NBA Governor. The NBA requires the governor's endorsement on a deal before it can go through.

Calls to Belkin's home and cell phone were not returned Tuesday night.

Indications are that Phoenix wants to complete the deal. Team president Bernie Mullin, reached at home Tuesday night, declined comment.

Reached in Las Vegas Tuesday afternoon, Hawks general manager Billy Knight admitted there was a procedural "snag," but expressed hope the deal will be completed.

"There are some things we have to work out, some things that have to be taken care of," Knight said. "But we'll get it taken care of and move on."

Suns president Bryan Colangelo would not comment on the deal "until our business is complete."

The Hawks and Suns agreed in principle to the sign-and-trade deal Sunday. The Hawks get Johnson for five years and $70 million, in exchange for Boris Diaw and two future lottery-protected draft picks. The Suns would also receive a trade exception of about $10 million.