<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">HODGE WAITS: The exhibition season will be a wash for Nuggets guard Julius Hodge. Hodge, still recovering from gunshot wounds, has not played a game or been through a full practice with the team since April and will not travel to California. "I think he'll practice next week," Karl said. "That's what I got from the doctor's report (Tuesday)." Hodge was shot four times in the legs and hip while driving on Interstate 76 north of Denver on April 8. A foot infection prevented him from returning during training camp. "Just have to wait until I'm feeling 100 percent," he said. "Right now, I'm feeling pretty good. I feel like I can play, but I'm continuing to feel better every day, so it doesn't hurt to take my time." The extended absence, however, does hurt Hodge's chances for a contract extension. The Nuggets are not expected to pick up his $1.32 million option for 2007-08 by the Oct. 31 deadline. Kleiza and Smith also have team options for next season. Their contracts likely will be extended, though an official decision probably won't be made until just before the deadline. HOOD WAIVED: Former Air Force guard Antoine Hood was told Tuesday night he will be placed on waivers today. "It's obviously tough, but I'm thankful for the opportunity," said Hood, who had a nonguaranteed contract. Asked if he will try to play in the NBA Development League, Hood said he is "still trying to sort out" his options. The move will reduce the Nuggets' roster to 16 players, one more than the NBA limit. Guard Anthony Carter, the only player remaining in camp without a guaranteed contract, said he has not heard anything about his status. Karl and vice president of basketball operations Mark Warkentien declined comment. </div> Source
