Antic, Sefolosha will contest charges stemming from Copeland stabbing, out Wednesday

The Eastern Conference-leading Atlanta Hawks didn't need any distractions heading into the postseason.

They got one of an unfortunate magnitude on Tuesday, with Pero Antic and Thabo Sefolosha being charged with obstruction and disorderly conduct in the aftermath of the Chris Copeland stabbing in New York. Sefolosha was also charged with resisting arrest, while Antic was charged with harassment.

Neither player will be in action against the Brooklyn Nets on Wednesday, but both will be contesting the charges laid against them, they said in a statement.

According to the police report, Antic and Sefolosha refused to clear the area while officers were trying to establish a crime scene.

"We are aware of the situation involving Pero Antic and Thabo Sefolosha this morning," Hawks vice president of public relations Garin Narain said earlier on Wednesday. "We are in the process of gathering more information and will have further comment at the appropriate time."