I managed to catch up with Spencer Hawes after playing phone tag for a day.
I found the former Kings center to be in good spirits about the trade that sent him and Andres Nocioni to Philadelphia for Samuel Dalembert.
He credits Sacramento with helping him grow on and off the court. But he realizes a change isn't a bad thing for him at this stage of his career.
"I think it's a great opportunity with the way the roster is set up to contribute right away," Hawes said.
By now we all know Geoff Petrie's deals usually aren't rumored about too much in the media before they happen.
Hawes hadn't heard his name mentioned in the many rumors that circulate this time of year.
"It did catch me off guard," Hawes said.
He was grateful Petrie spoke with him about the situation before the deal was completed. Hawes said he had good talk with Petrie and that he thanked him for the opportunity in Sacramento.
Now Hawes is looking forward to playing in front of Sixer fans that he's heard are as passionate as Kings fans. Hawes said another positive is he going to Philadelphia with Nocioni.
Hawes said his approach to the offseason won't change. He's still looking to add strength and muscle to his 7-foot-1, 245-pound frame.
Afterall, at 22 he realizes he still has a lot of basketball ahead of him.
"I could be a rookie this season," Hawes said referring to the fact this would have been his senior season in college.
This will be a good change for Hawes. I was reminded he played college ball on the West Coast (University of Washington) before being drafted by the Kings.
Some athletes find being further away from their hometown makes them better players. For Hawes, it could be a chance to start over with a fans, media and an organization that hasn't developed a negative opinion of him.
Hawes said he's matured in Sacramento and that was evident in my conversations with him during the season.
He admitted he thought he had a lot of the answers early in his career and knows that's not the case now.
Hawes said any issues he had this past season weren't a big deal and they were good for him.
With a fresh start, Hawes will have a chance to prove the lessons he learned in Sacramento will show in his play.
--Jason Jones
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