On the same day they signed highly-rated import Jahii Carson, the Wollongong Hawks received another boost on Thursday with news that centre Larry Davidson's knee injury is less serious than initially expected.

Davidson had an arthroscopy on his left knee on Wednesday and returned home with fresh optimism.

"The doc went in and got rid of the loose bit and said it went well," Davidson said.

"There's no specific time frame in terms of the recovery period yet, but it's encouraging that the injury doesn't seem to be as bad as I first thought."

Davidson was powering through the preseason before his knee "locked up" during a weights session almost two weeks ago.

The 31-year-old has endured a history of knee problems and hopes his latest setback doesn't keep him out of Wollongong's 2014-15 season opener against Townsville on October 10 at WIN Entertainment Centre.

Coach Gordie McLeod was relieved to learn Davidson was unlikely to be a long-term casualty.

"I haven't got the full report from the doc yet, but in speaking with Larry, the specialist was happy with the operation," the 2013-14 NBL Coach of the Year said.

"It wasn't as serious as we first thought, but when I get the full report we'll have a better idea of what his rehab is going to be. It's looking promising to be sooner rather than later."

Carson's signing rates as one of the most significant in the Hawks's 35-year existence.

He will play alongside fellow import Gary Ervin, who has returned after capturing NBL MVP honours with Wollongong in 2011.

Carson has effectively taken the place of former Hawks guard Rhys Martin, who is seeking a contract with a European club.

"Rhys was a big part of playing that point guard, so when we lost him at the time we did, we felt we had to bring in two ball-carrying guards who could score," McLeod said.

"When Jahii became available, we looked into him and felt that was going to be a really good fit for us."

Ervin and Carson arrive in Wollongong on Sunday.

"Gary's been a really solid player in the league, so it's getting that balance between everyone and the chemistry of being able to play as a unit," McLeod said.

"Using all our pieces is something we've been good at in the past. It's a style of play we've used with good success, so we're going to look to build along those similar lines this year."