Home > Mark Bradley > Archives > 2008 > May > 01 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USDo the Hawks believe in themselves?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Boston - We’re about to learn if, in their heart of hearts, the Hawks believe they can win this series. They didn’t play like it Wednesday night. They lost by 25 points and afterward Josh Smith said, “Other than giving up some offensive rebounds, this doesn’t disappoint me because we still played hard. We continued to fight ever though the game was out of reach.”
Granted, this playoff thing is all new for these Hawks. But the idea at this time of year isn’t to play hard. The idea is to win no matter what it takes. There’s money and prestige on the table: It’s a given that nobody’s going to loaf.
If the Hawks still believe they can take this, they’ll win Game 6 and come back for Game 7 on Sunday. Having lost three times here already, it’s hard to imagine that a fourth time would be any different, but you never know. Any given Sunday and all that…
But here’s the cold reality: The Hawks are, counting the playoffs, 12-32 on the road; they haven’t yet won a quarter in TD Banknorth Garden this postseason, let alone a game; Mike Bibby, who’s supposed to be the seasoned pro, has had three consecutive two-baskets-and-one-assist road games. There’s nothing in any of that to offer much hope.
Then again, there wasn’t much hope entering a series against a team that won 29 more games than they did, and the Hawks managed to take two from Boston in Philips Arena. As impressive as the Celtics were Wednesday night, they still have to win once more.
Imagine if they find themselves back here for a Game 7 against a sub-.500 opponent and the score is tight with five minutes to play. Imagine the pressure on them then.
In three games here, the Hawks haven’t yet applied such heat. They’ve been out of it almost from the start. But it only takes one road win to steal a series if you hold serve at home. We’ll see Friday if the young Hawks believe strongly enough to give themselves that chance.
Permalink | Comments (86) | Post your comment | Categories: Hawks/NBA
Comments
By Jay
May 1, 2008 8:00 AM | Link to this
One minute you are for them and the next minute you are against them. Shut up, Mark Bradley.
By Hawks
May 1, 2008 8:18 AM | Link to this
run your mouth run your mouth you are a retard.
By Jeff
May 1, 2008 8:24 AM | Link to this
Mark you are fired! Thank you pack your things and go world for a celebrity mag.
By wes
May 1, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this
Mark, do you still think the Hawks should fire their coach?
By Jim
May 1, 2008 8:55 AM | Link to this
Hard to beat all three: the Celtics, the crowd, and the home-cooking by the refs. It was almost like a NASCAR race where the league put the word out that ratings depend on a certain winner.
By remer lane
May 1, 2008 8:58 AM | Link to this
Would someone please let it be known the sign made with the thumb and forefinger in the shape of an “o” and the other three fingers up is an old sign meaning 4-0, as in perfect.
By George
May 1, 2008 9:04 AM | Link to this
Looks like David Stern wants the Celtics to win this round (I can’t blame him). After not suspending Kevin Garnett, and with the horrible foul calling, the Hawks are bound to lose.
By the way, nice call refs on the Flagrant foul on Al Horford!!! You are so blind!
By hawks fan
May 1, 2008 9:15 AM | Link to this
This a terrible job by the nba during this playoff round. It is apparent that David Stern is gonna do anything necessary to have the celtics win this series. With the refs on his side( they should all be suspended after last nights bogus calls0 and the celtics overmatched talent, the hawks have a huge mound to climb. I hope we win at phillips and force a game 7 beacuse in a game 7 no matter were it is anything can happen even the impossible.
By Jim
May 1, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this
George - you saw it too. Guess the columnists are like the coaches - forbidden to comment on the referees. that Horford foul, the chippy charging fouls on the Hawks, and complete disregard for the loose ball fouls on the Celtics early in the game determined the outcome far in advance of the final horn.
By Brian
May 1, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this
After the gifts you were given by Eddie F. Rush in game four you have the temerity to blame the refs for losing by 25 points? I was at that game last night, Atlanta got every call. EVERY CALL until the game was already out of hand. You have nothing to b*** about, we played eight on five the other night. This series is over, we’re gonna run through ATL so hard and fast the elders are going to be talking about Sherman again.
By Singindablues
May 1, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this
How do the refs influence a game? Pretty simple, just pop a couple of fouls on a teams main point producer (JJ) early in the game. That effectively takes him out of the game early and makes it tough for any player to get in the flow and have an impact in the game. The NBA is far and away the easiest pro league to be influenced by official’s calls. The inconsistancy of fouls called in the NBA games is the biggest flaw in the sport and will always leave it open to speculation as to the motivation of the refs.
By BUM
May 1, 2008 9:36 AM | Link to this
First, I believe in this Hawks team. They have younger, fresher legs and are not burdened by any expectations.
Second (to George and Jim), you are both correct. The NBA has always favored the home team and the stars. This ‘pro wrestling’ attribute is driven by the NBA’s unquinchable thirst for ratings and dollars.
The ‘good news’/’silver lining’ in this is that Atlanta will be the home team Friday night AND a “Celtic Game Seven” would provide the NBA with a marquee Sunday television product to sell. In light of that, it would be a shocking upset if ATLANTA did not win Friday.
David Stern and the league want a Game Seven on Sunday featuring the Celtic magazine cover boys. They’ll likely get it.
Boston will be the heavily favored and very confident team with great expectations. Atlanta will be the much younger team with much fresher legs and nothing to lose.
In spite of very long odds, I like Atlanta’s chances. I believe in this team.
By Jenn
May 1, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this
I think it interesting that there is concern over non-calls last night. The Hawks went to the foul line many more times - they were 25 of 29 versus 11 of 15 for the Celtics - almost twice as many attempts at the free throw line…
By Mike
May 1, 2008 9:51 AM | Link to this
Brian must have been in one of those “hard to see” seat locations…or just a typical beantowner…the celtics days of class with Larry and co. are over…now just populated by thugs like Garnette who should hae been ejected for throwing the elbow at Pachulia the other night well after the play was over and it was intentional, instead the “refs” gave a double “T” because Pachulia dared to get in Garnette’s face…the Hawk were hosed in Beantown, but hey, that was expected, maybe Friday will be different, but if we win Friday, expect to get hosed again on Sunday…
By spfld751
May 1, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this
tJust be content with your 2 wins. There will be no game 7.This ends friday.
By spfld751
May 1, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this
tJust be content with your 2 wins. There will be no game 7.This ends friday.
By spfld751
May 1, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this
tJust be content with your 2 wins. There will be no game 7.This ends friday.
By spfld751
May 1, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this
tJust be content with your 2 wins. There will be no game 7.This ends friday.
By spfld751
May 1, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this
tJust be content with your 2 wins. There will be no game 7.This ends friday.
By **Atlanta Hawks' #1 Lady Fan**
May 1, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this
I STILL BELIEVE IN THE ATLANTA HAWKS!!! THE BEST THING FOR THE HAWKS TO DO AT THIS POINT IS SHAKE OFF THAT LOST AND COME BACK HOME READY TO WIN!!! ENOUGH SAID!!! LETS GO HAWKS!!!
AL HORFORD IS STILL MY PICK FOR ROOKIE OF THE YEAR!!!!!!
By Barry
May 1, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this
Hey Y’all:
As I said before, Bradley,You Stink!!!
Take your sorry but to Boston or somewhere. Look in your other blog for how I really feel about you. You are a pathetic local sports beat writer. We are in the playoff run of our life and your are talking about this crap? Go to Boston with your silly self. If you saw the game last night, the referees stole the game. The let the Celtics attack the Hawks by not calling fouls against them. And prevented the Hawks from attacking, by calling petty fouls when the Celtics were defended by the Hawkss. The Hawks will win tomorrow and they will win Sunday. We will “SHOCK THE WORLD!!!” in this series. ANd when we do Bradley, I believe you better find another city to write for. Because you have truly shoewn us your are not with the Hawk fans of Atlanta who read the Atlanta Journal Counsitution (AJC). I welcome the change of you gone from our community and the change of our Atlanta Hawks becoming winners.
“SHOCK THE WORLD!!!!” MY HAWKS. RUN AND GUN TOMORROW AND SUNDAY. OUR TIME HAS COME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!! This is a Secret from a local “HAWK FAN”. TELL EVERYBODY!!!!!!!!!!
CONTINUE TO “SHOCK THE WORLD!!!!!” LOVE YA!!!!!!!!
Ringold
By Horford Rox
May 1, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this
I don’t care about Games 1 through 5. They’re history!
Hope the Hawx beat celts butts in G6 and Fight to the Death in G7!!!
Go HAWX and DDT EM IF YOU HAVE TO!
By **Atlanta Hawks' #1 Lady Fan**
May 1, 2008 10:12 AM | Link to this
EVEN IF THE HAWKS LOSE GAME SIX, WHICH I HIGHLY DOUBT, THE FACT STILL REMAINS THAT THAT GREEN TEAM DID NOT SWEEP THE HAWKS!!!! AND THAT MEANS A WHOLE LOT TO THE HAWKS AND ME AS A FAN OF THE HAWKS SINCE THE 80s
REMEMBER:
THE ATLANTA HAWKS WERE PUT TO THE TEST!!! BUT IN GAME THREE AND FOUR PUT THAT GREEN TEAM SWEEPING THEM IN THE PLAYOFFS THEORY TO REST!!!
By McRly?
May 1, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this
These guys are still learning HOW to win in the playoffs. They figured it out at home, let’s see if they can apply it again. And if they do, then we’ll see if they can figure out a road win. One at a time Bradley.
By John
May 1, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this
It’s just nice to see that their are actually Hawk fans in Atlanta. I suppose none of you are bangwagoners like those fickle Boston fans right?
By John
May 1, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this
It’s just nice to see that their are actually Hawk fans in Atlanta. I suppose none of you are bangwagoners like those fickle Boston fans right?
By KidCharlatan
May 1, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this
Jenn wrote: “I think it interesting that there is concern over non-calls last night. The Hawks went to the foul line many more times - they were 25 of 29 versus 11 of 15 for the Celtics - almost twice as many attempts at the free throw line…”
A very good point, proving that watching a pro basketball game is a lot like attending church: Lots of people show up and participate, but few really understand what’s going on.
By Kellie J
May 1, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this
Yes they can win!!!! No need to try to explain how, they’ve already proven they can do it! I don’t understand why the city isn’t behind them more. They lost one game…so what! The series is not over!!
Let’s GO HAWKS!!!
By Kellie J
May 1, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this
Yes they can win!!!! No need to try to explain how, they’ve already proven they can do it! I don’t understand why the city isn’t behind them more. They lost one game…so what! The series is not over!!
Let’s GO HAWKS!!!
By Kellie J
May 1, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this
**Yes they can win!!!! No need to try to explain how, they’ve already proven they can do it! I don’t understand why the city isn’t behind them more. They lost one game…so what! The series is not over!!
Let’s GO HAWKS!!!**
By callsfinallyright
May 1, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this
Funny that people are complaining about the bad calls last night. After games 3 and 4 it was refreshing to see calls achieving some sort of balance. Arguing the flagrant against Horford? It was arguable, and at the very least very close. How about the two defensive foul calls on Pierce, one to take him out of the game (3). Those were unquestionably charges. How about the foul called on Perkins, and Cassell, where they clearly had all ball. How about game 3 when horford and smith fouled pierce, knocking him to the ground, and smith, rolling on his face, and then pushing him after? I want to see game 6 evenly called. Which was much closer in game 5 than games 3 and 4.
I’ll give the hawks credit where it’s due, they played hard, and the celtics lost game 3 on their own, and didn’t have the energy by the end of game 4. But the games were one sided officiated. I’ll say this too - the Hawks sure have a lot of extracurricular activity going on. Reminds me of the 80’s Pistons. And I used to really like Horford until I saw his antics in this series.
By Gary
May 1, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this
hmm…listen to all these Hawk fans lol. Where were you guys during the regular season??? lol Bandwagoners….
The Hawks have went to the line more than the Celts ALL SERIES!!! The refs aren’t giving the Celts any advantage. And by the way…KG threw that elbow cause ZaZa wouldn’t let go of his arm. Go watch it! Your team is full of young punks. Who the hell is Al (a rookie) to point and bark at Paul Pierce when he’s down? What a punk. It’s over Friday night.
By Mark Bradley
May 1, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this
A couple of points: (1.) There was nothing wrong with the officiating last night, nothing whatsoever, and (2.) I don’t mind if a team loses because it doesn’t have the resources. But I’ve thought for a long time that these Hawks had the resources to be a much better team than their record would indicate, and Games 3 and 4 only reaffirmed the notion. This isn’t a great team by any stretch, but it’s much stouter than some people — Mike Woodson, for example — would have us believe.
By tuka
May 1, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this
Before crying about the officiating in Boston, look at the FT discrepancy from game 5…heavily in the hawks favor.
By William
May 1, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this
The Hawks coaching staff should have known the double and triple teams were coming in that game last night, there was no way Boston was going to let our main man have another game like he had in Atlanta on there home court, if they had prepared properly for that we could have won that game last night, i blame the coaching for that loss. All the other players should have been pumped up and prepared to step up there games to make up the difference, if they had been, we could have gotten the (W)… It’s a team game.
By PROUDTECHFAN
May 1, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this
I kinda agree with Mark here, the C’s were complaining about calls here in Atlanta, and we’re going to complain about call in Boston, its a given. i didnt think the calls were in favor of the C’s i dont agree with the mysterious flagrant foul on Garnett, i’ve seen much worse not get call a flagrant, but it is what it is. lets not forget something people, this was suppose to be over, its not easy trying to beat a team with a triple threat, and a rucous crowd on the road, thats hard for any team. Stand up and be proud of the home team for a change, forget about last night its over and so is games 1-4 their all over. its literally win or go home from here out. And to my home team Atlanta Hawks, thanks from a true fan, thanks for giving me something to cheer about, thanks for giving me hope, thanks for representing this city on one of the biggest stages in sports with competitiveness and enthusiasm, thanks Bibby, Johnson, Williams, Smith, and Horford for taking the court with a purpose. Thanks for never ever backing down, thanks for playing hard and out of freaking minds. Thanks for proving that we’re no longer the laughing stock of the league. I just want to say thanks for the season, because this is what you play for and no matter how you got here, you’ve truly earned it. Thanks Coach Woodson for standing your ground through all the criticism and handling it with nothing but class. We should all thank you guys for showing spirit, and drive for wanting to play at the next level. This thank you has been signed, sealed and delivered by one of your biggest fans.
GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!
By Fired Up!
May 1, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this
Mark,
I agree with everyone else regarding you quiting your day job! Sure the Celtics played good last night- it didn’t hurt that the refs made some seriously bad calls (flagrant against Hortford, Smith out with a technical and a personal in the 4th, Hortford charged with traveling?!) And the Hawks didn’t play bad. I say if the Hawks win Friday night, you should quit your day job. What do you say?
By Fired Up!
May 1, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this
Mark,
I agree with everyone else regarding you quiting your day job! Sure the Celtics played good last night- it didn’t hurt that the refs made some seriously bad calls (flagrant against Hortford, Smith out with a technical and a personal in the 4th, Hortford charged with traveling?!) And the Hawks didn’t play bad. I say if the Hawks win Friday night, you should quit your day job. What do you say?
By Fired Up!
May 1, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this
Mark,
I agree with everyone else regarding you quiting your day job! Sure the Celtics played good last night- it didn’t hurt that the refs made some seriously bad calls (flagrant against Hortford, Smith out with a technical and a personal in the 4th, Hortford charged with traveling?!) And the Hawks didn’t play bad. I say if the Hawks win Friday night, you should quit your day job. What do you say?
By Hubert
May 1, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this
They made me love them on Monday, and I knew they would break my heart on Wednesday, just like so many times before…you think I’d eventually learn my lesson! My observations:
Marvin Williams just sucks. He doesn’t belong on any NBA team with the possible exception of the Miami Heat. And while we’re on the subject, Acie Law appears to be worthless too.
Mike Bibby is supposed to have all this playoff experience, but as far as I’m concerned he’s playing like this was his first time. And what’s with all the jump passes across the court? Rule 1: Never leave your feet!
The Hawks were probably going to lose no matter what, but does it make sense to bench your best player with 2 fouls in the first quarter, let the Celtics build a nice healthy lead, and then bring him back in after it’s too late? It’s much easier to hold a lead…or stay close…than it is to catch up from a 15-20 point deficit. Johnson is the only guy who can score…might as well leave him in and hope he doesn’t foul out…he’s more likely to get productive minutes that way. Of course, I can’t totally blame Woodson as every coach seems to make this same mistake. It’s like they’re saying that points scored at the end of a game are worth more than they are at the beginning!
I’m hoping we can still force a game 7 but it’ll be in Boston. Well, it was fun while it lasted.
By C's Fan
May 1, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this
Wow!!! All the crying is laughable. You all sound like little beeyathes. I now know who to ask if I need a real good excuse for one of my shortcomings.
Time to focus on the Braves and hope they don’t meet up with the World Series Champs - BOSTON! Hahahaha.
By stopFlopping
May 1, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this
Did anyone else notice how the Celtics flopped on every play? There was always a Celtic player on the floor every freakin’ play. The refs stopped calling it in the 4th after the game was already decided. They flop more than Duke. Bold:Boston Floptics should be their new name.
By oldmike
May 1, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this
Just remember one thing, Woody doesn’t have to be fired. His contract is up. Let’s see if they have the foresight to get rid of him and bring in a REAL coach. Plenty will be available. Many already are.
By Wow
May 1, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this
With regard to the officiating. I really don’t understand the complaint from Boston fans in games 3 and 4. Especially game 4. The foul on Pierce was in no way shape or form a block that took him out of the game so stop crying. It amazes me when players cry after blatantly committing a foul (not saying the hawks haven’t ever been guilty of that). The worst call of game 4 was in fact when Acie Law got closelined at mid court going after a loose ball. That was amazing. All in all I thought both games 3 and 4 were fair. As for the free throws, everyone making a comparison as if the attempts mean Boston is not getting the calls is a moron. The hawks are driving and the Celtics are shooting jumpers…that is way the attempts are off…end of story. Now as for game 5 the Hawks did not put out the effort or play at a level which would allow them to win regardless of the refs. That being said, there were a few game changing calls that were unfortunate. Johnsons second fould (the charge) was by all definitions a blocking foul and that pretty much doomed the hawks from the start. There is no way they call Garnett with a charge in that situation. To call the flagarant on Horford “close” is laughable. In what universe do you define that as a flagarant? Anyways, the bottom line is the Hawks need to play better to have a chance and the refs sure didn’t help in game 5. See ya’ll on Friday…Oh and Brian, classy to liken the series to our city getting burned down in the 1800’s.
By msDee
May 1, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this
Of course the Hawks can still win this series!! Look what happen back in 1988 when the Hawks played Boston. It was the very same situation. Boston won the 1st 2 games..we tied it 2-2..We won the next (3-2) but Boston came and won 2 back-to-back to take the series. And we had home court advantage!! This time it will be the opposite. We now can turn the tables and win 2 back-to-back and take the series. I realized that, being human and all, we have this affect that if there is no pressure, we as human tend to let our guards down just a bit, causing our opponent to step up even more..With that being said, Boston will come into Atlanta with a “IF we dont win, we can still can end it at home” which is not the attutide u should have in a playoff series cause while they have their guard down, the Hawks will play that much more harder to win their game 6 causing Boston the get very nervious and ancious(not sure if I spelled that right but u get what I am saying), to lose there edge in game 7 to the Hawks!! So after saying all that, I TRULY BELIEVE THE HAWKS WILL SHOCK THE WORLD AND WIN THIS SERIES!! Again, the Hawks have nothing to lose but everything to gain!! Which includes respect, confidence, and a chance to the semi-finals!! GO HAWKS!!
By GABred
May 1, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this
For you wannabe analyst, who keep harping on the fact that the final stats indicate ATl shot more FT’s than Celtics therefore alls fair. Its not the total, its when the Celts got these calls (when the game was still up for grabs). I can have a triple-double and the stats look great but if you discover that all of these stats were scored in the 2nd half of a 50 point blowout loss, wouldn’t carry the same weight as it would in a 3 point victory. The so-called mighy Celts shouldn’t need the drama school flops to beat this 8th seed and the refs shouldn’t need to bail them out. I think we kept our composure inspite of some of these AAU refs, I say simply let the players play the game and let the chips fall where they may. GO HAWKS!!
By John
May 1, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this
I wrote in a text message to my brother after JJ’s foul mid way through the first quarter…The NBA, where rigging games happens.
I understand the foul discrepancy and the fact that the Hawks shot twice as many free throws, but by taking JJ out of the game, it effectively doomed the Hawks chances. The lead expanded while he was out and the Hawks never recovered.
By Chris
May 1, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this
Funny stuff reading about how the refs were on the Celtics side. You didn’t really think the Hawks were goign to beat the Celtics in this game, never mind this series did you? Hawks won 12 games on the road all year….All year! It’s been a nice run for you guys, but the reality is that your team is not going to the second round this year. Got some talented young players, hopefully they can work on their attitudes (Horford showing the guns after a layup when his team is down by 17 lol).
By Chris
May 1, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this
So because it is Joe Johnson and your only legitimate scorer they are supposed to excuse him from being called for fouls. That is funny.
By Jake Saad
May 1, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this
Its amazing, fans of both teams think they are getting screwed by the ref.
Tthe Hawks were at the stripe 29 times to 15 for Boston, In gm 4 Hawks had a 33- 18 advantage at the free throw line. Hawks have been to the line about 45 more times than Boston in the series, how can the refs be helping Boston? Quit dreaming up rediculous excuses and take the loss like a man.
By brent a.
May 1, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this
Someday, everyone will come to understand that NBA officials are just plain bad.
Are some games fixed? Maybe. Are they influenced by the officials? Without a doubt.
But of course fans of both teams will think the refs are messing them over, because referees are just so bad.
Free throws are FAR FROM the only measure for determining whether or not a game was called fairly.
By Boston#1
May 1, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this
First of all, Hawks - you guys are a tough bunch. We rather loose to a team who works as hard as you guys do. I do feel sorry to say that we, Celtics, are winning this series (6 or 7 game) Once you guys get knocked out the playoff’s, focus on 2 things:
Trade Bibby and some bench player for A. Iverson.
Stop beign cheap and buy a new buzzer please.
By Boston#1
May 1, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
Yo, Mark Bradley - you want to write real sport articles? You’re best bet is to work for any Boston newspaper. The problem with Boston media is their annoying way of expressing their hate when things go wrong. But I bet it beats writing about loosing teams in Atlanta.
By Ryan
May 1, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
Re: Joe Johnson—considering his liberal use of his off-arm this ENTIRE series, it’s surprising that it took until the 5th game of the series for it to get called. As I’m sure Atlanta fans knows, JJ uses his off-arm on every drive he makes. Last night, Powe beat him to the spot, took that off-arm, and fell over. That’s an offensive foul in the NBA whether you like it or not. So get over it. He’s done it 50+ times in this series, and this was the 1st time it was called.
As for the officiating as a whole, the C’s didn’t get one more charge call the entire night after getting 3 early charges. The reason? Mike Woodson complained his a* off, and then Dick Bavetta and the other refs huddled up. After that point in time, SEVERAL questionable blocking calls were made against the C’s, and not a single charge was called.
As for the flopping issue, remember this: prior to game 5, the C’s had drawn only 1 offensive foul in the previous 4 games. ONE. And that’s with the bullrush moves of Horford, the off-arms of Bibby and Joe Johnson, and bull-in-china-shop routine from Zaza. One charge call. That’s ridiculous, as attempting to drawn charges is a staple of the C’s interior defense (because they are quick, yet undersized). Atlanta, and their fans, have nothing to complain about in the officiating department, and even your own columnist agrees.
Ryan
By MalibuGT
May 1, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this
the officiating has been bad both ways, but if any of these celtic’s blogger thinks Stern and the NBA want to see the Hawks upset the Celtics, they’re crazier than Manny. Garnett’s antics, which include shoving a referee, go unpunished. Compare that with the penalties handed out in last year’s Suns/Spurs game - what a joke. That being said, the Hawks need to play with energy and enthusiasm to win here and not worry about the officiating. The C’s looked old in the games in Atlanta - they’ll go down sooner or later, like the patriots choking in the Super Bowl. And yes, for god’s sake can we do better than a janitor with a air horn for game 6!
By GIANTS4EVER
May 1, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this
let me get this straight…someone from New England wants to talk about cheating?! LOL
Hawks better look out for cameras at practice today
By PROUDTECHFAN
May 1, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this
I hope we as Hawks and Celtic fans havent stooped to blaming the outcome of this series on officiating. Both teams has had their share of calls and non-calls.
But my post is really geared toward a blogger a few post up named Chris. He said that Horford needs to change his attitude for showing his guns or flexing his muscles after a layup while down 17 points. Let me explain something to you my Celtic friend. i have been taught especially in sports never show defeat even when defeated. Horford played his butt off for three seasons at Florida, played for a great coach and won back to back national titles. Now i understand this is the NBA playoffs, and the siutation is different but the mentality should be the same. Never show your opponent no matter how superior, that they’ve defeated you. Even though the Hawks were getting the crap kicked outta them Horford, a rookie, showed he still has fight in him and i hope whatever extra ability in him rubs off the other players come game six and possibly seven. Just because Garnett is a more established player, you best believe Josh Smith and Horfard are giving him everything he can handle right now and he is fighting for and earning every basket.
By Ryan
May 1, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this
For the record, Garnett didn’t shove anyone, instead he freed himself from the ref’s restraint. If you want to see an actual ‘push’ or ‘shove’, check out Antoine Walker’s push of a referee during the 2005 playoffs. What separates the two incidents (and which also explains why KG wasn’t suspended while Walker was) is that while Antoine was running towards the fracas, he pushed the ref down on his way. Garnett was pulled from an almost fracas, and simply acted to free himself for Eddie F. Rush’s grasp. It’s a small difference, but one player intentionally made contact with a ref and the other player simple sought to end contact which the ref had already begun. If you read rulebook, it states that a player may not “intentionally” make contact with a referee.
Anyway, the C’s win game 5 with or without Garnett. The so-called altercation was hardly anything, that’s why no suspensions were handed down. And if you look at the tape, it’s interesting how the refs went to restrain Cassell and Garnett, while the actual ones escalating the situation—the ones (Zaza and Joe Johnson) moving with malice in their eyes—were left untouched. Nobody restrained Zaza after he nearly headbutted KG and nobody restrained Joe Johnson after he pushed Sam. Weird.
Ryan
By Rick
May 1, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this
This is ridiculous! I’m tired of hearing Hawks fans whine. You’re getting beat by a better team, period! I admit the ref’s weren’t good in game 5, but they weren’t bad enough to be a 25 point difference. I’m tired of hearing the players on Atlanta cry, along with their fans, about anything that going on. If the Celtics win the series in Atlanta, they ought to take a victory lap around the court and rub it in your face. All this crap started when Josh Smith took a CHEAP shot a Paul Piece to start the series and then Mike “I Suck” Bibby starts running his mouth. Do you really expect the Celtics players and fans to not react? Now I see where “Craplanta” gets it’s nickname from. How are those Braves doin’? How ‘bout them Thrashers? Leave it to a city like yours to fall in love with a dog killer and liar like Michael Vick!
By Block Rick
May 1, 2008 6:23 PM | Link to this
RE: LANGUAGE.
Please block Rick from posting!
By Jay
May 1, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this
The Nba will not let Boston lose. How do you explain…Garnett pushing a ref, Perkins stepping on the court, Cassel purposely fighting Joe Johnson, Rondo comminting a flagrant with Josh Smith, Horford’s “flagrant” because he dare touch Garnett, Law getting tackled in Game four with the loose ball and no call, etc. Its been blatently ridiculous.
100% respect and props to your Atlanta Hawks for fighting as hard as they have. We’re proud of you all.
By cefus
May 1, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this
win or lose friday i am proud of the hawks. just this season after many many years i left them but now i am hawks fan again. We get a good center and let horford move to his original spot and we will be good to go.
By Trill Phil
May 2, 2008 12:07 AM | Link to this
Like I said in Games 3 and 4 when I was seated near the Headlines Grille drinking my @$$ of (lol): “YOU GOTTA MESS WITH THE MONEY TO GET THEY’RE ATTENTION!!! THEM BOYS GOT MONEY ON’EM THAT’S WHY THEY WEARIN’ GREEN!! AIN’T NO PRESSURE ON YOU (JOE), THEY GOT THE MONEY ON THEM!!!! Y’ALL AIN’T GOT NOTHING TO LOSE, BUT THEY GOT EVERYHING!! Y’ALL JUST GOTTA PLAY LOOSE BABY!!!!
if you think i’m lying about my commentary on this sereies, then you my friend are quite frankly unawar of the concept of controlling a game. Meaning, a non-call on an OBVIOUS game-suspending non-call double technical foucall on KG when he MUSHES the ref in game 4 is JUST AS powefrul as a tic-tac charge called against JJ in the 1st as well as a non-call with Al H in da paint with RONDO continuallly allowed to reach over the back ALL GAME on the young fella…. gtfoh!!! (get the f&&^ outta here!!)
We have (had) no commercials for ANYTHING NBA product merchandising related this ENTIRE SEASON, while Ray, PP, and Kg have MULTIPLE endorsement deals, a SERIES of ESPN Sportscenter ads, and a few “Welcome Back, Boston!!” ads with Addidas AND NIKE!!
I didn’t even see ANY HAWKS half n half face mash-up ad al a shaq/kobe UNTIL TODAY when they FINALLY decided to show a Bibby/Pierce half n half mash-up commercial for Game 6, WELL AFTER THE FACT THAT A GAME 6 WAS ESTABLISHED MIND YE ALL!!!
The Hawks are to blame for the Game 5 loss, yes, but by only 45-55%. impeccably inconvienient foul and non-foul callng by the refs alowed the C’s to win by 48-50% of the game. C’mon Boston fans, a charge on JJ when the young Hawks are down by only 8 in the mid 2nd quarter ??? loL!! Numerous non “over the back” non calls vs Boston all game (and series too)…LOL!!! A non hack on Powe vs Chills in the close of the 2nd quarter….lol!!!!! A Another non call on Al AND a flagrant during the clost of a 12-4 Hawk run the EARLY 3rd which brought the C’s lead down to 62-54……OMG GTOF LOL!!!!!!
Not to mention a “lane violation” vs Bibby in the 3rd which allowed PP to complet a crucial 3 point play…IN PRECEEDIN a key 3 pointer by Ray which just-so happened (??) to extentd the C’s lead to 17 points in the key strecth of the 3rd quater, AFTER THE SAID BIBBY AND HORFORD FOULS/NON-CALLS….are..you….kiddin’…me!!!..!!!!!….????
I’m pround of them birds and I hope n pray they FINALLY get a TRUE CENTER this of-season, as well as a new GM, but them boys messin’ with money y’all, and the powers thta be don’t like that sheeet…..straight up!
5000 I’M OUTTIE Y’ALL!!
By Mike
May 2, 2008 12:18 AM | Link to this
The Hawks are not a good shooting teamThey are young, and athletic. The only way they can win is to refrain from taking perimeter shots, except foe maybe Joe Johnson, and take it to the hoop, pass to the open man around the rim. Draw some fouls, and get them in foul trouble. Everytime they gom up to Boston it seems they revert to street ball.
By Rick
May 2, 2008 1:05 AM | Link to this
You’re getting beat by a superior team, PERIOD! Time to wake up and face it.
By Rick
May 2, 2008 1:13 AM | Link to this
33 wins….The Hawks SUCK…Period!
By Bumpy
May 2, 2008 3:52 AM | Link to this
Seems like the journalists (Schultz, no Bradley) are against Woodson. I am all for that agenda - even if it’s clear these “Atlanta guys” haven’t paid attention to the Hawks all season and now try to write like they are familiar with the team. Lately, there has been no mention by them of Billy Knight, no calling for that head. I agree with that agenda as well, but I expect after the season, the three stooges, Bradley, Schultz, and Moore will be calling for both Knight and Woody to go, omitting a key distinction for who gets the blame in this franchise.
By RA
May 2, 2008 8:33 AM | Link to this
Hey Rick
You know, it’s funny. I remember back in the eighties when Detroit just couldn’t get past Boston. They were a “superior team” too. Then a funny thing happened, Boston’s big three got too old, and those three great guards, Vinny Johnson, Joe Dumars, and Isaiah Thomas started running circles around them on their way to the finals, and then the Bulls just couldn’t get past the Pistons, superior team and all you understand… Then a couple of years later, Detroits big three started getting old and the Bulls started running circles around them on their way to the finals, are you detecting a pattern here Rick? I could go a lot farther back, but the pattern remains the same. I don’t care how good your team is, eventually time will hunt it down and make the kill. Are you still reading Rick? I hope so because I’m going to share with you a single inescapable truth, your team’s present, is my team’s future. I’ll remind you that I said that in the not too distant future when my team is running circles around yours on their way to the finals.
By Boston#1
May 2, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this
Yo Atlanta - Tell your PA announcer AKA delayed buzzer man AKA defence chant cheerleader AKA soon to be blamed for tonights lose - to ask for a raise. Atlanta - this is not baseball - one word: BUZZER!….
By RA
May 2, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this
block Rick Listen, I don’t like what Rick says either, but I’d defend to the death his right to say it, regardless of how offensive, ignorant, shortsighted, or inbred his comments are.
By BMG Green
May 2, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this
Say good night Hawks fans, it’s a shocker you made it this far. Be grateful YA’LL.
By whammer
May 2, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this
I WILL CONTINUE TO SUPPORT THE HAWKS, THEY ARE MY TEAM GOOD OR BAD. MAN JUST LAST YEAR THE C’S JUST PLAYED FOR A DRAFT PICK. THE ENTIRE TOWN WAS CALLING FOR MANAGEMENT’S HEAD. NOW THEY ALL LOVE THEM. BIBBY WAS RIGHT TALK ABOUT FAIR WEATHER FANS IN THE MOST RACIST CITY ON EART. I HAVE BEEN TO SEVERAL GAMES THERE. NOT ONE AFRICAN-AMERICAN CHEERLEADER AND MAYBE 10 FANS OF COLOR. FOR THE RECORD I AM WHITE. OH YEA IF YOU ARE OF COLOR FORGET GETTING A CAB! THEN YOU HAVE THE UNBEATABLE PAT’S WITH THE BIGGEST CHOKE IN SPORTS HISTORY, THE BIGGEST. THE HOMER FANS TRASH TALK BEFORE THE SUPERBOWL WAS AMAZING AND THEN THEY JUST DISSAPEARD. OH YEA AND THE MIGHTY SOX, COME ON THEY TOOK LONGER TO WIN A SERIERS THAN IT TOOK FOR MAN TO EVOLVE(?).
AS FOR THE TEAM OF WRITERS ON THE AJC, THEY FIT. A BUSH LEAGUE PAPER WITH BUSH LEAGUE WRITERS. I WILL CONTINUE TO SUPPORT MY TEAMS WHEN THEY WIN OR LOOSE. I HAVE NEVER SPENT A DIME ON THE AJC AND NEVER WILL AND IF I SEE A LARGE ADVERTISER ON THE PAPER I DO NOT SUPPORT THEM EITHER.
HAWKS FANS BOYCOT THE AJC, BOYCOT THEIR ADVERTISERS.
GO HAWKS.
By whammer
May 2, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this
I WILL CONTINUE TO SUPPORT THE HAWKS, THEY ARE MY TEAM GOOD OR BAD. MAN JUST LAST YEAR THE C’S JUST PLAYED FOR A DRAFT PICK. THE ENTIRE TOWN WAS CALLING FOR MANAGEMENT’S HEAD. NOW THEY ALL LOVE THEM. BIBBY WAS RIGHT TALK ABOUT FAIR WEATHER FANS IN THE MOST RACIST CITY ON EART. I HAVE BEEN TO SEVERAL GAMES THERE. NOT ONE AFRICAN-AMERICAN CHEERLEADER AND MAYBE 10 FANS OF COLOR. FOR THE RECORD I AM WHITE. OH YEA IF YOU ARE OF COLOR FORGET GETTING A CAB! THEN YOU HAVE THE UNBEATABLE PAT’S WITH THE BIGGEST CHOKE IN SPORTS HISTORY, THE BIGGEST. THE HOMER FANS TRASH TALK BEFORE THE SUPERBOWL WAS AMAZING AND THEN THEY JUST DISSAPEARD. OH YEA AND THE MIGHTY SOX, COME ON THEY TOOK LONGER TO WIN A SERIERS THAN IT TOOK FOR MAN TO EVOLVE(?).
AS FOR THE TEAM OF WRITERS ON THE AJC, THEY FIT. A BUSH LEAGUE PAPER WITH BUSH LEAGUE WRITERS. I WILL CONTINUE TO SUPPORT MY TEAMS WHEN THEY WIN OR LOOSE. I HAVE NEVER SPENT A DIME ON THE AJC AND NEVER WILL AND IF I SEE A LARGE ADVERTISER ON THE PAPER I DO NOT SUPPORT THEM EITHER.
HAWKS FANS BOYCOT THE AJC, BOYCOT THEIR ADVERTISERS.
GO HAWKS.
By BMG Green
May 2, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this
Yo Whammer, I feel badly for you when I read your sore loser posts. You have lot of issues with a lot of things. Another hater of Boston’s recent success with sports. Everything comes and goes buddy, but for now it’s here - baseball, football, basketball, maybe the NHL next season. Get a grip - it’s about excelling in your game through hard work. Nothing to do with race. Some fans show up/ support their teams more than others. Period.
SEE YOU TONIGHT?
By Boston#1
May 2, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this
Hey whammer….cry me a river…you’re stuck on the 6 o’clock news…..remember this - the media edits what they want you see or hear - it’s just a whole bunch of edited PowerPoint presentations - you are right “Bush league type material” - don’t believe the hype. You see, racism is a world wide virus and unfortunately, it’s practiced a lot more in this country - so please don’t bring that into this SPORTS section….About the Patriots….they are not an NBA Team….I could definitely talk about the Falcons all day long, but let’s focus on tonight’s game and let’s not get all frustrated – talking about how many black people you’ve seen in Boston and white chicks dancing flipping all up on your popcorn and all….give me a break… In regards to Bibby – quoting Jay-Z lyrics: HE’S ALRIGHT BUT HIS NOT REAL” - Allen Iverson is better - you guys should try to acquire him in a trade off. That move will not only strengthen the Eastern conference, but it will help the Celtics get better - by beating a much better Hawks team next year. Practice makes perfect - although AI doesn’t think so….and oh yeah, keep your Hawks pride up at all times, we have done it since 1918 with the Red Sox and all throughout 16 NBA titles and then some for the Celtics….Patriots, let me just say, we are just tired of being successful and being hated on.
By RA
May 2, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this
Boston fans, don’t let this fact escape your notice, win or lose, you’ve wasted way too much time on us already. IF you do win tonight, a fate that is by NO means certain, I might add, you’re going to have to face a Cleveland (I say Cleveland because I believe they’ll finish Washington tonight) team that is much younger than yours and more powerful than us. If you get passsed them, you’re going to be looking at a battle hardened Detroit Piston ball club that’s been there and done that. And IF, you get passed them, you’ll have to play whoever comes out of the west. Honestly, I don’t think they’ve got it in them, and the extra effort that they’ve had to put in with Atlanta is part of what took it out.
By Boston#1
May 2, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this
You are right RA - we are wasting energy on the Hawks. Celtics need to focus on tonight’s win and then next series. Too bad we had to waist all that energy on Hawks “flagrant-like” fouls on our key players and also little distractions from weatherman Bibby…. Thanks for the heads-up!….
By RA
May 2, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this
Don’t mention it.
By BMG Green
May 2, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this
Are you kidding RA? We WELCOME the idea of playing real chamapionship caliber teams like Cleveland, Detroit and whoever in the West. We bring out the best in crap teams but these teams bring out the best in us. But still, thanks for your two cents! :-p
By RA
May 2, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this
BMG Green You better be right, because if your team had played against the teams that you just named off the way that they’ve played against Atlanta, they’d probably be in the 3-2 hole and on their way out of the playoffs. My team’s not crap, and I’d thank you not to say so. They’re a little young, maybe too young, but far from crap. You want crap, look across the river to Dallas. They’re already on vacation. Now, I know that you’re miffed that this series is still going on, but that’s more due to the determination of my team than any lack of motivation from yours. In game four, your boys hit our Hawks with everything they could muster, twice, and both times our boys got up off the matt and came right back at them. Now, I understand that you’re down for your team, but show mine a little respect.
By BMG Green
May 2, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this
You’re right, I do apologize. But you understand that I am going by Win/Loss standings. Hawks - 37/45, C’s - 66/16.
By RA
May 2, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this
Of course.
By RA
May 2, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this
Okay, let’s try this one. BMG, you’re right, the regular season numbers don’t lie, but this is a whole different season, and while the Celtics have decidedly more talent and are decidedly more experienced, I think that you would have to concede that the Hawks have not been the 37/45 team of the regular season anymore than the Celtics have been the 66/16 team that made everyone think that they would sweep their way into the playoffs. There, maybe this post won’t disappear.
By BMG Green
May 2, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this
True…you sound like a reasonable guy (or gal). Regardless, may the best team win it all! You’ve waited a long time, we’ve waited a long time. But as they say..there can only be one. Let’s just enjoy G6 tonight can’t we??
By frank hawaii
May 2, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this
Boston has the much better team. They will close it out tonight. NBA is not excited about a game 7 of atlants. They would much rather have Cleveland Boston game 1. Boston will win to rest for the game sunday or tuesday at home if washington wins. Boston will win as they realize they need the time off. Atlanta won the 2 games at home but it ends tonight. There will be no big 4th quarter heroics.
By frank hawaii
May 2, 2008 6:23 PM | Link to this
Atlanta fans be happy with your 2 wins. Try to sign a free agent or two in the off season and hope you get better.