John Hammond met with the Milwaukee media for the first time since being hired as the general manager of the Milwaukee Bucks.

The 53-year-old Zion, Ill. native said that he is condifident he has what it takes to do the job and that the Bucks, with young stars like Yi Jianlian and Andrew Bogut, have building blocks in place. He also won't be hesitant to make changes, if necessary.

"I think we're going to explore every possibility that we can to improve this roster," Hammond said. "There are pieces that you have here intact now that we can win with."

Hammond also said that he isn't concerened about being hindered in his efforts by Kohl, who has been accused over the years of being a meddlesome owner.

"I'm not sitting here today because I don't think I can do this job, or because I don't think I have the freedom to do this job," Hammond said. "I had a great job, I was with a great team, I was working with a great guy. I'm here because I think I'm going to have the freedom to do this, otherwise I wouldn't be sitting here.

"Mark my words."

Hammond said that the evaluation process of head coach Larry Krystkowiak would begin soon, but did not speculate on the first-year head coach's future.