Spencer Hawes (back) remains "a ways away" from returning to game action, Rick Bonnell of the Charlotte Observer reports.

Hawes (back) remains "a ways away" from returning to game action, Rick Bonnell of the Charlotte Observer reports.

Analysis:

The big man remains without a timetable as he continues to nurse a strained lower-back. He participated in shooting drills over the weekend, but the Hornets don't appear overly optimistic that Hawes will be back any time soon.