Jon

Barry

Barry, who averaged 6.2 points for Denver last season, makes his home in Atlanta, and the move would allow him to stay close to his family.

“I think the likely scenario is Jon and Rodney will be back at the moment,” Vandeweghe said Thursday. Barry remains in contact with the Hawks and Clippers, but he would prefer to stay in Denver.

Barry, who will become a free agent in July, was in and out of coach Rick Carlisle’s rotation all season. He and Chucky Atkins, who has three years left on his deal but isn’t content as a reserve, are candidates to be with other teams next season.

Barry missed 21 games earlier this season with an injury in the same area, but doesn’t expect this one to keep him out.

Trainer Jim Gillen said Barry would be re-evaluated in four or five days, at which time his status will be more accurately determined. Barry had the same injury in the 1999-2000 season. ''I’m losing complete sensation in my right arm more and more each day,’' he said. ''If you don’t be careful, it could be permanent.’'

Barry could return in two or three weeks.

“Saturday will be a big day to find out where we are,” he said. “Based on no contact, I can’t really tell.” Barry hopes to return before the All-Star break in mid-Feb.

Trainer Jim Gillen continues to give no timetable on Barry’s return but said, “His shoulder’s doing great, so we’re getting close.”

Barry’s injury has gone from being feared quite serious to having him back before the break.

The Pistons only appear to be interested in re-signing Jon Barry if they can’t get first-round pick Carlos Delfino released from his European contract in time for this season. If the Pistons can’t get either Delfino or Barry, they may trade Cliff Robinson for a swingman.