The relationship between the Atlanta Hawks and Josh Smith has been quite positive of late, and according to GM Danny Ferry, the team will look to re-sign the forward once he becomes an unrestricted free agent next summer.

Josh Smith is entering the final year of his current contract with the Hawks but it is "unlikely" that he will be re-signed before the end of the upcoming season. The forward is eligible to become an unrestricted free agent next summer.

Under the new CBA rules, this could serve as an advantage for both Smith and the Hawks to wait to sign a new contract.

If Smith re-signs with the Hawks before June 30, the extension can be for only a maximum of three years, but if he waits until after his contract expires, he can re-sign for up to five years.

According to Hawks general manager Danny Ferry, Smith and his agents have said he would like to remain in Atlanta.

"I've been clear that I value Josh as a player," Ferry told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. "He has worked hard this summer and I believe he is going to have great season. I've been in contact with his representatives. Josh and his representatives have been clear that he is excited about the direction of the team and wants to be part of the future in Atlanta. That being said, I don't expect the contract situation to be resolved until next summer."

Negotiations are not completely closed and there is always a possibility, albeit slim, that a deal could be worked out before next summer.

Smith led the team in points (tied with the departed Joe Johnson at 18.8) and rebounds (9.6) per game. He and Jeff Teague were the only players to appear in all 66 regular-season games.

Smith and the rest of the Hawks will officially report for training camp on Monday with practices beginning the next day.