Harvey had planned to sign replacements for Ivan McFarlin and Jazz Ferguson this week, 

But a deal with a forward has been nipped in the bud.

"It was really close, he just wanted an out clause if he made the NBA Summer D-League in July - I was like 'no'," Harvey said.

"You can't have an import and pay top dollar and then he goes to try out for D-League.

"It's understandable from his point of view that you want to play the highest standard possible.

"He wasn't rude about it, he was fantastic, he ticked every box, everything.

"I've been on the phone five days... but at the end of the day I'm happy, because imagine if he left in July."

The Braves coach remains on track to sign a centre to fill McFarlin's big shoes and isn't too concerned just yet.

The imports don't have to arrive until February and Harvey will keep working down his list of players.

"It's disappointing but I'm close to another guy which is Ivan's position," Harvey said.

"It hasn't worked out, but that's the way it is, it's cut-throat. 

"I'm not stressed about it, I wish I had my imports signed now, but more importantly I've got to get the right ones."

The Braves have started pre-season training and will ramp up preparations for season 2014 in the new year.