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DEL.ICIO.USAdvice for new Hawks GM Sund
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Hawks hold no picks in next month’s draft, but their general manager still faces significant choices. Speaking of Rick Sund, co-owner Michael Gearon Jr. said Thursday: “Every decision with regard to this franchise is going to be his decision.”
Here are the issues at hand, and here, for the new man, is some unsolicited advice:
Mike Woodson: Keep or dump?
This is tricky, given that Gearon has expressed his desire to retain Woodson, whose contract expires July 1. If Sund indeed has carte blanche, he should be able to hire the coach of his choosing. But does any GM want his first move to be a refutation of an owner’s stated wishes?
Luckily, there’s a middle ground here. Sund could offer a one-year extension. That way he could be seen as erring on the side of continuity while committing himself to nothing long-term. And if Woodson balks to the point of demanding more years, the new GM could wind up getting to hire his own man for next season anyway.
Recommended course: Sund should tell Woodson, “Your career record is 106-222. You’re lucky I’m offering another week, let alone another year. Take it or leave it.”
Josh Smith: Keep or dump?
The feeling is that some other team — Philadelphia has long been rumored as a suitor — will make a Joe Johnson-type offer to the free agent. (Say, $70 million over six seasons.) These owners could well be tempted to do a sign-and-trade and let Smith leave rather than match such a windfall. Here’s where Sund’s 30 years of NBA experience must be brought to bear.
No matter what the sign-and-trade package might be, it won’t include any player who fuses proven performance with such untapped potential. Already really good, Smith could/should get way better. It was evident in the Boston series that, for all the Celtics’ depth, they had only one man capable of playing so far above the rim, and that one — Kevin Garnett — is 10 years older.
•Recommended course: Sund should tell his owners, “Nobody in this draft and not many guys in the league can do what Smith does. If we let him leave, we’ll spend the next decade regretting it.”
Josh Childress: Keep or dump?
The Hawks might try to pinch pennies on Childress, who is also a free agent and who could command even wider interest than Smith. Ownership could say, “Do we really need to pay $40 million over six seasons for somebody who doesn’t start?”
Two years ago, the answer would have been no. But it became evident in the playoffs — Childress was, with the possible exception of Johnson, the most impressive Hawk over seven games — that he’s exactly the sort of dauntless sub who makes good teams good. The Hawks have a chance to stay good for a long time if they tend to business this summer.
Recommended course: Sund should say, “If we don’t match, we’ll have to find someone like Childress somewhere else. It’ll be simpler and cheaper to keep what we have.”
Mike Bibby: Keep or dump?
He helped the Hawks make the playoffs but was mostly awful in the seven games against Boston. He just turned 30 and will be a free agent after next season, during which he’s scheduled to make $14.5 million. Sund has indicated to the AJC’s Sekou Smith that he’s high on Acie Law IV.
For a franchise unaccustomed to spending big, keeping the Joshes will represent a massive outlay, and there will be some sentiment to ease the burden. But even if Bibby isn’t the long-term answer, this is no time for the Hawks to get stingy. For the first time in a decade, they’ve got something going.
Recommended course: Sund should say, “We need Bibby because Law isn’t quite ready. If he proves otherwise next season, I’ll try to move Bibby at the trading deadline. But not just yet.”
Permalink | Comments (77) | Post your comment | Categories: Hawks/NBA
Comments
By AlbanyMan
May 29, 2008 7:30 PM | Link to this
This sounds really good Mr. GM Keep the Joshes for a long time give Woody a one-year deal and lf the team is not better next year than this past year then let him go. And one more thing Mr. GM, sign a 6’5 or 6’6 shooter who can come off the bench and score.
By Marcus
May 29, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this
I like your plan. Well most of it. I would keep J-Smooove and Chills. I would hold on to Mike Bibby until the trade dead line hoping the I would see enough from AC Law to send Bibby packing.
However, Woody should walk. I would like to Avery Johnson as the Hawks next head coach.
Sund should try to move Marvin Williams, for any warm body that happens to be 7’ tall.
The best thing that could happen to the Hawks would be for the Atlanta Spirit to sell the team to Ted Turner.
Good Luck Mr. Sund, we will be watching.
By kdog
May 29, 2008 8:01 PM | Link to this
please, don’t let mike woodson comeback
By ATLplayer
May 29, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this
Not bad bradley…not bad at all. I do think Woodson earned an extension say two years. The guy was dealt a bad team from the start. AC Law is not aggressive enough and miss time due to injury. I see why Woodson was afraid to play him. He also knew his neck was on the line so he rode his horses all the way. Given an extension he will trust other players like Law and allow them to develop. Remember he did develop Smith and Childress. He gave Smith tough love at a time when he needed it. Give him credit for the GOOD and BAD!
By bob
May 29, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this
dump claxton at any expense and use the money elsewhere. how much longer is he under contract? expiring contracts are enticing around the league.
By BYRON
May 29, 2008 8:16 PM | Link to this
THE HAWKS JUST SHOWED THEY AINT NOTHING BUT A BUNCH OF RACISTS!!! THEY TOOK A JOB AWAY FROM A STRONG SUKCESSFUL BLACK MAN AND GAVE IT AWAY TO SOME WHITE BOY!!! ATL AINT NOTHING BUT RACIST!!!!!
By Josh
May 29, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this
I agree sign the Josh’s, and give Woodson a one year deal and if this team can’t win a minimum of 45 games and get out of the first round of the playoffs, he needs to go. We also need to address the bench and try to get some solid guys instead of the no names we have. We don’t need superstars, we just need somebody off the bench with a pulse besides Childress
By Diego
May 29, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this
Byron, your insane. Tell me what Woodson did for the Hawks. You clearly no nothing about basketball, you don’t research the free agent market to know what players could have been in Atlanta, you also can’t think past your short vocabulary. This was not a racist move. And yes, I’m black.
By Matt the Brave
May 29, 2008 8:37 PM | Link to this
Avery Johnson would be a good choice now that we have a coach with a connection to Dallas…I know it’s been a while, but it’s there nonetheless! I like Woodson and I think that he would do a lot better with a true point guard like Bibby for a whole year, but the dude’s getting old and Woodson might not want to grind thorough another season like this…I guess we’ll see.
By Chad
May 29, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this
It sounds good but I’ve been a Atlanta fan my whole life and I know these guys. They will not Smith and he will go some where and get big money and do big things and we will be in last place again. I hope i’m wrong lord i hope i’m wrong. Its just that I have been screwed by the Hawks to many times and it isn’t the GM that pays the money. It is the crazy owners and they really scare me.
By tyger
May 29, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this
Hawks pay Luxury Tax??? Nah!!
By Astro Joe
May 29, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this
Fascinating recommendation. Keep all of BK’s players and replace the coach (something BK tried to do 3 times reportedly). And exactly how is this proposal different than what the previous GM wanted to do? Sure, BK made bone-headed draft decisions but ultimately, the team is likely 1 above average coach away from being consistently good (and about another $10M-12M in payroll).
By ecl
May 29, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this
Definetely keep Josh. He may still have some growing up to do but he is one of the few NBA players that play defense as well as offense and it was clear form the series with Boston that he plays above the rim and above everybody else, including Garnett. Garnett was D palyer of the year and Josh was much better than him on D. Jury still out on Woodson so maybe give him another year but I am scheptical. Need a center who can block shots and fill space so can rotate Horford to power forward. Bibby is ok and we need him. Like Childress ok but would rather have a center if money limited. Nevertheless, at all costs keep Joe J, Smith and Horford together. With a litte money and creativity, should be able to build a team around those 3. Too bad Williams hasn’t panned out but doubt we could afford more that 3 good players anyway and need some bulk.
By nahjay davnpooh
May 29, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this
hey byron, sucks being you huh? lol. that’s right, get used to it. it’s still our world and always will be.
now go rob a liquor store.
By Virgil Stay
May 29, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this
What is wrong with you people that say keep Woodson for another season. 106-222 - that by itself should say this guy needs to go. Damn the thought of giving him one more year! I am tired of the Hawks being a laughing stock. Keep the momentum going and hire Avery Johnson.
Sund, if you want to make Atl fans happy, do the following two things: 1) HIRE AVERY JOHNSON; AND 2) SIGN BOTH JOSHES.
ASG, if you want to make Atl fans happy, do the following two things: 1) ENCOURAGE SUND TO HIRE AVERY JOHNSON; AND 2) ENCOURAGE SUND TO SIGN BOTH JOSHES.
By Dr. Tobias Funke
May 29, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this
We already have the rights to the center that we’ve been missing. David Andersen has been playing in Europe for the past 6 years (Hawks drafted him in 2002 and still have the rights to him), and is widely regarded as one of the top two centers over there. It’s time for the Hawks to finally pony up the cash that it’ll take to convince him to come stateside. From what I’ve read, he’d be a terrific fit with the rest of the athletic kids we have, and he wouldn’t have to go through a rookie adjustment period since he’s been a pro for several years already.
Make it happen, Mr. Sund!
By lamar
May 29, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this
Good article MB. Even though Woodson does some things that confound me, I really don’t think that his career won/loss record should be held against him. He was given a horrible team, with a GM with a fetish for 6’8” swingmen,still doesn’t have a center and only got a true point guard at the trade deadline this year. I would definitely like to see what Woodson can do with this team when they get a whole season with a real point guard. A great center would be nice, but unfortunately, they are very rare these days.
By lamar
May 29, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this
Good article MB. Even though Woodson does some things that confound me, I really don’t think that his career won/loss record should be held against him. He was given a horrible team, with a GM with a fetish for 6’8” swingmen,still doesn’t have a center and only got a true point guard at the trade deadline this year. I would definitely like to see what Woodson can do with this team when they get a whole season with a real point guard. A great center would be nice, but unfortunately, they are very rare these days.
By Paul Wilson
May 29, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this
Heres what we could go do: Keep Bibby till the end of next season. That will give him time to be PG for a whole season with one team. Also, resign J Smoove to a long-term contract and resign J-Chill to a 2-3 year contract. We could do a sign-trade with J-Chill and another player or a pick for a big man. We NEED a big man, a proven winner and scorer big man. We don’t need just anyone. As far as the coach goes, I’d either keep Woody or let him go. I’d give that the FULL time alloted to make that type of a decision….which they have until July 1 which is a whole month to sleep on it and discuss it. Theres plenty of proven head coaches available out there. Theres no excuse to NOT have a great and proven winner coach. Thats all I got to say about that.
By nahjay davnpooh
May 29, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this
i’m sick of all you “atliens” crying for avery johnson. THE LAST THING THIS FRANCHISE NEEDS IS ANOTHER EQUAL OPP HIRE.
By crawdaddy
May 29, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this
I have been a Hawks fan all of my life, back whan Rollins and Roundfield were kicking butt. I think it is time for Woody to go. He seems like a nice guy but the players just seemed confused at times. Too much standing around. As far as BK is concerned, he made some terrible basketball decisions. We could have had Chis Paul or Deron Williams, instead we got Sheldon and Marvin! Look at all of the quality players that have come into the league since the Hawks have been sucking. It is hard to believe that we missed on all of them. Josh Smith is good but that seemed like a guess by BK. It also seems like when we get rid of a guy He starts kicking azz! Woddy has had his chance, let’s get an experienced, proven, coach that knows what it takes to win! I lived in other parts of the country and took crap for years for being an Atlanta fan. Thank God for the Braves! The Hawks still need a lot of work if we keep Woody, I would not be surprised if they end up back in last place. Did anyone watch the Hawks in the Regular season? The were terrible! Just because they had a little run in the playoffs does not mean much. They were the worst team to ever make the playoffs! What did they win 38 games? That is not good by any means. With all these top picks we should have been good years ago. How come the top teams stay good even though they pick at the bottom of the draft every year? It is quality management and coaching. That is the bottom line. I also believe that part of the problem is that Atlanta is too much of a party town. Athletes are too concerned with what is going on in their personal lives to concentrate on their jobs. Too busy out chasing tail to work on their game. These guys get payed a lot of money to play a kid’s game. It is not that stressful. Half of those guys could not cut with a real job. I am talking about all of the sports not just Bball.
By Kev
May 29, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this
I am with you Albanyman give Woody a year or two a year would really be a slap in the face. Two year deal. Get a Mike Reed type shooter in here for Marvin Williams. A solid Vet on the bench (BIG MAN) 6-10 7-0 Feet type guy. Give Richardson some playing time.We will be in the mix.
By Jermaine Burkes
May 29, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this
Please Mr.Sund here my cries this has to stop right now we are tried of losing. Even though we made the playoffs we still had a losing season , we need to let Marvin Williams go and Chills and sign Josh Smith get us a big man for a center a banger that plays defense and a veteran bench give Joe Johnson some help and offer Avery Johnson a 5yr deal he knows what it takes to win thank you Mike Woodson put he is better for college make it happen Mr. Sund that is your job.
By Ice
May 29, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this
Mr. Sund should do a sign and trade with Josh Smith to the Bulls. Package Smith and Bibby for Heinrich, Noah and Tyrus Thomas (turning into a stud). Throw another player in if necessary to make the deal work. Re-sign J Chills, and give Coach Woodson a one year deal to see how the team respomds to him. I think with this senario, it’s like having a draft pick, with the potential of Thomas and Noah (yes I know about his recent troubles).
By zape
May 29, 2008 11:04 PM | Link to this
mr. sund was a good move. i hope to see him resign both joshs’… i would try to move bibby and cut ties with speedy… then make a move for agent zero (arenas) this offseason and someone for our bench to compliment josh childress… we could have a high scoring backcourt with 2 stars to help out the cast. arenas, johnson, smith, williams and horford… i would definitely not sign mike woodson if i could get avery johnson to coach this team… but would bring him back for that one year if we can’t get avery… Avery will develop Acie Law and even some parts of Arenas’ game. Acie can then be another significant bench player like Josh Childress… We could easily be the next contender in the East to go against the West next year!!!!
By nahjay davnpooh
May 29, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this
it cracks me up to hear you idiots with your trade suggestions.
the only realistic trade scenarios involve bibby, or a sign-and-trade involving one of the joshes. good luck getting equal value.
By david
May 29, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this
If we keep Woodson what a mistake. Anybody could have gotten this team in the playoffs. We are in the east. Weak weak east. I’m not going to bash Woodson as a coach but as a fit for this team. Change his name to Wooden it wouldn’t matter we need a new coach to go with the new GM to grow together with the new attitude that is beginning. That is a no brainer. Also J Smith I promise isn’t as good as some make him out to be but I hope we keep him. Letting Childress go would be foolish and a terrible mistake. Bibby’s got to go. Acie is the future at that position if we had a coach. We need a coach with a point guard approach to the game. Not a slow talking slow thinking forward’s game. C’ mon new GM we have an opportunity to take what we have and improve.
By Harpie
May 29, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this
NO MORE WOODSON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By darrell starks
May 29, 2008 11:59 PM | Link to this
i luv josh smith but he is not smallford he is a power ford therefor you must trade josh smith for some one who can creat his own shot off the dribble to take the preasure off joe johnson it only make sense i luv andrea igulodolla from sixer a guy who can score 22 point a night and defend the priemter on deffense and move alhortford to power ford and sign a center such kwame brown who still young and the right coach such as avery johnson he can become better player.
By nahjay davnpooh
May 30, 2008 12:04 AM | Link to this
darrell, you’re right, smith is not a power ford. he’s more a power honda.
now get me some fries.
By igotxx3
May 30, 2008 12:13 AM | Link to this
you cant just trade josh smith. the hawks are building a good fan base because of the excitment he brings to the game. you can ask kids who’s your favorite hawk player they will mention josh smith. you only see joe johnson and josh smith wearing jerseys, well majority. Trading josh smith could result in decline of fan base. from atlanta raise in atlanta gotta keep josh smith!
By Pete
May 30, 2008 12:30 AM | Link to this
The Joshes are the Hawks!!!!! BK put it in place they just have to tweak it and not tear it down. However, Coaching is the real issue. Woodson needs to add more creativity to his offense. He deserves a little more time as the head coach. They need to have a winning record by the All-Star break or he gets the Ax.
Avery Johnson is taking a year off from coaching. Don’t be surprised if he pops back up soon.
Next season the Hawks need to be a 4th or 5th seed and terrorize the NBA with stronger and better play in the regular season and playoffs God-willing.
Can we keep Salim Stoudamire and give him part of Speedy’s money?
Are we still paying him?
By Pum Pum Driller
May 30, 2008 1:48 AM | Link to this
Pale “Davnpooh”. What’s your problem boy? Are you having some kind of inferiority attack or something? I suggest you get yourself som robitussin. Yeah rub it all over your pasty a$$, lay out in the sun and try get some soul boi! Brilliant people prove their worth by uplifting those around them. Get yourself some lube and learn to love yourself again.
By WILL
May 30, 2008 4:41 AM | Link to this
THE ONLY WAY THE HAWKS WIN AN NBA CHAMPIONSHIP IS IF JESUS COMES TO TO THE OWNERS OF THE HAWKS AND WE ALL KNOW THATS NOT GONNA HAPPEN I AM WHITE AVIETNAM VET AND I KNOW THAT ALL THE PROFESSIONAL TEAMS IN ATLANTA NEED AN OVERHAULING ,THEY HAVE UNDERACHEIVED FOR 30 YEARS AND UNTIL THE BRAVES GET BOUGHT BY ARTHUR BLANK THEY WILL NEVER MAKE THE PLAYOFFS AGAIN,THE HAWKS,HAVENT BEEN ANYTHING SINCE THEY LOST GAME 7TO BOSTON IN 83,THE FALCONS ARE ON THE RIGHT TRACK,IT WILL TAKE 3MORE YEARS,BUT THEY ARE ON THE RIGHT TRACK,THE THRASSHERS,ONLY GOD KNOWES WHAT THEY WANT TO DO I HAVE NO IDEA,GETTING RID OF HOSSEA_ ¨? its time for owners of atlanta franchises to spend the money and get talent atlanta needs ,itstarts with the braves sorry owners,and the atlanta spirit please?
By WILL
May 30, 2008 4:41 AM | Link to this
THE ONLY WAY THE HAWKS WIN AN NBA CHAMPIONSHIP IS IF JESUS COMES TO TO THE OWNERS OF THE HAWKS AND WE ALL KNOW THATS NOT GONNA HAPPEN I AM WHITE AVIETNAM VET AND I KNOW THAT ALL THE PROFESSIONAL TEAMS IN ATLANTA NEED AN OVERHAULING ,THEY HAVE UNDERACHEIVED FOR 30 YEARS AND UNTIL THE BRAVES GET BOUGHT BY ARTHUR BLANK THEY WILL NEVER MAKE THE PLAYOFFS AGAIN,THE HAWKS,HAVENT BEEN ANYTHING SINCE THEY LOST GAME 7TO BOSTON IN 83,THE FALCONS ARE ON THE RIGHT TRACK,IT WILL TAKE 3MORE YEARS,BUT THEY ARE ON THE RIGHT TRACK,THE THRASSHERS,ONLY GOD KNOWES WHAT THEY WANT TO DO I HAVE NO IDEA,GETTING RID OF HOSSEA_ ¨? its time for owners of atlanta franchises to spend the money and get talent atlanta needs ,itstarts with the braves sorry owners,and the atlanta spirit please?
By WILL
May 30, 2008 4:41 AM | Link to this
THE ONLY WAY THE HAWKS WIN AN NBA CHAMPIONSHIP IS IF JESUS COMES TO TO THE OWNERS OF THE HAWKS AND WE ALL KNOW THATS NOT GONNA HAPPEN I AM WHITE AVIETNAM VET AND I KNOW THAT ALL THE PROFESSIONAL TEAMS IN ATLANTA NEED AN OVERHAULING ,THEY HAVE UNDERACHEIVED FOR 30 YEARS AND UNTIL THE BRAVES GET BOUGHT BY ARTHUR BLANK THEY WILL NEVER MAKE THE PLAYOFFS AGAIN,THE HAWKS,HAVENT BEEN ANYTHING SINCE THEY LOST GAME 7TO BOSTON IN 83,THE FALCONS ARE ON THE RIGHT TRACK,IT WILL TAKE 3MORE YEARS,BUT THEY ARE ON THE RIGHT TRACK,THE THRASSHERS,ONLY GOD KNOWES WHAT THEY WANT TO DO I HAVE NO IDEA,GETTING RID OF HOSSEA_ ¨? its time for owners of atlanta franchises to spend the money and get talent atlanta needs ,itstarts with the braves sorry owners,and the atlanta spirit please?
By Kamal Mourad
May 30, 2008 7:00 AM | Link to this
I say ” Keep SMITH and BIBBY”. Childress….? Marvin Williams…? There are a lot to let go and replace.
By Virgil Stay
May 30, 2008 8:12 AM | Link to this
Questions: How many coaches (in professional sport) would be given 4 years to amass the kind of losing record that Woodson did? How many coaches would receive an additional year after amassing those losing seasons?
The bottom line: new GM = new coach! Get a WINNING coach that will demand respect from these young guys. Take a peek at what other teams have done: Bulls - veteran coach; Bobcats - veteran coach; Knicks - veteran coach. What is a common theme among these coaches? They’re winning percentage is greater than five hundred. What is a common theme about the teams? They are also young.
Sund, please get this right. I live over an hour away from Atlanta and have been a season ticket holder. With the price of gas continuing to rise, and no end in sight, I am not going to purchase season tickets with a franchise that will continue to support a losing coach.
By Maniac is accurate
May 30, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this
Heck, if Woody gets off to a slow start or stumbles at midseason, can his butt then. Gearon was a jackass fool (we knew that already) for making his completely, cluelessly idiotic “keep Woodson,” statement in the first dang place.
By 1+2
May 30, 2008 8:22 AM | Link to this
Does anyone recall how many times Woodson kept throwing his players under the bus by stating that he needed better players? Well Mr. Woodson, you received Mike Bibby and still stunk as a coach. And these players that you didn’t think were good enough, apparently were because they took the Celtics to a game 7. It wasn’t your coaching. If it was, we wouldn’t have loss 3 games by an average of 23 points and a game 7 by 35!!!!! How in the he!! do you lose a game 7 by 35 points? How in the he!! is your team not up for such a game? How is it that your team comes out playing like they did in the previous road loses? The answer: You could not push the right buttons! Why? Because the majority of the team, outside of Joe Johnson, does not respect you. New GM guy, get a real coach!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Jay
May 30, 2008 8:31 AM | Link to this
Marvin Williams for Damien Wilkins. Make it happen Sund!!!!! Scorer off the bench and a great PR move bring in another Wilkins.
Resign both Joshes at all costs. Bring over David Andersen and sign a jouneyman 7 footer with Salim and Speedy money.
Bibby/Law JJ/Wilkins Smoove/Chills Horf/Solo Andersen/Zaza
Wright & 7 footer
We can go to war with that!!!!!!!!!
P.S. Woody for 1 more year would be a gamble, but I think he has earned 1 more year. It would be hard to upset the flow at this point. Avery will be available after next year.
By no id
May 30, 2008 8:32 AM | Link to this
they gotta keep the joshes.we all know this is a business but they should show some commitment for once..they drafted them and they rode it out..after helping atlanta getting over this playoff hump and not getting resign would be like a slap in the face..if they keep woody and let the joshes go that would really be a slap in the face..and please! no one year extenstions for woody…some people are head coaching material and some are not…and he’s not..i know kids that can draw up a better play than him in the dirt
By Maniac is accurate
May 30, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this
1+2 is right. People are forgetting the Hawks backed into the playoffs in the worst way and lost in spectacular fashion in every game in Boston. That’s the coach. He stinks. Can him now.
By Billy Knight
May 30, 2008 8:50 AM | Link to this
Keep that stubborn fool…are you kidding me? I gave him all the tools he needed in order to win a CBA championship and look where that got us. I sacrificed my reputation by bringing in an unproven assistant (with a bad attitude) and this is the thanks I get. He needed a forward, I got him a forward. He needed five forwards, I got him five forwards. He needed a whole team of forwards, and I obliged. Where is the love?
By crich
May 30, 2008 8:53 AM | Link to this
The hawks are a long way from championship contention, but they do have the components to be a solid team in the east. While, Josh Smith is a large catalyst for Atlanta’s small fanbase he hold so much value in the free agency market that you could get a good player for him if you do a sign and trade. If they do decide to Keep Smith, the Hawks need to get a coach that can help him grow. It is evident that Woodson has had a difficult time earning the respect of Smith. Furthermore, while he has developed as a player, there are still large holes in his game that keep him from being an effective player consistently. He cant play the other wing and he doesnt have the ability to play on the block. While his upside is intriguing I think it will be a large risk offering him anything close to the max offer. Josh Childress must stay! He add so much value that is difficult to find in the NBA. He has no problem doing the dirty work and he is the hawks best finisher on the break. The Hawks need Bibby for one more year. Conclusion: do a sign and trade with smith, let woodson go, but Im not confident that Avery Johnson is the answer. Should have gotten Doc Rivers years ago! Get another 6’10” or 7’0” guy along with a wing who can shoot. Just my thoughts
By crich
May 30, 2008 8:54 AM | Link to this
The hawks are a long way from championship contention, but they do have the components to be a solid team in the east. While, Josh Smith is a large catalyst for Atlanta’s small fanbase he hold so much value in the free agency market that you could get a good player for him if you do a sign and trade. If they do decide to Keep Smith, the Hawks need to get a coach that can help him grow. It is evident that Woodson has had a difficult time earning the respect of Smith. Furthermore, while he has developed as a player, there are still large holes in his game that keep him from being an effective player consistently. He cant play the other wing and he doesnt have the ability to play on the block. While his upside is intriguing I think it will be a large risk offering him anything close to the max offer. Josh Childress must stay! He add so much value that is difficult to find in the NBA. He has no problem doing the dirty work and he is the hawks best finisher on the break. The Hawks need Bibby for one more year. Conclusion: do a sign and trade with smith, let woodson go, but Im not confident that Avery Johnson is the answer. Should have gotten Doc Rivers years ago! Get another 6’10” or 7’0” guy along with a wing who can shoot. Just my thoughts
By D.Ellis
May 30, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this
What has Avery Johnson accomplished as a head Coach that would warrant bringing him to Atlanta? His career playoff record is 23-24. He is the coach of record for one of biggest flops in NBA playoff history. He did win coach of the year but heck Byron Scott has a career winning % of 487 and he jsut won that award this year. One trip to the finals as well, where they flopped after being up 2-0 on the Heat. Look I’m not saying Woodson is the answer here. If it were up to me I’d give him a 1 or 2 year extension jsut to see of the momentum carries over. However Avery johnson is no Phil Jackson. Avery Johnson is not the answer here in Atlanta.
Resign both Joshes for sure. Give Woody the 1 or 2 year extension. Find a Center. And please give speedy his working papers.
By D.Ellis
May 30, 2008 9:37 AM | Link to this
I entertain the thought of packaging Bibby/M. Williams/ZAZA to the Sixers for Dalembert
Or Packaging Bibby/M. Williams and cash and or draft picks to the Pacers for J. O’Neil. The Pacers run is over and O’Neil will leave after this year any way. He’s on the market. I think WE would all agree that he is not what he used to be and Dalembert would be the better pick up, However he still averages 2 blocks a game and can score double figures no problem.
By Mark Bradley
May 30, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this
I kind of like the Marvin Williams for Damien Wilkins proposal. I remember Dominique — Damien’s uncle — telling me his nephew was a definite pro when he was still in college, and I have to confess that I didn’t believe him. (I’d seen Damien struggle at North Carolina State and play a lot of different positions without really dazzling at Georgia.) But ‘Nique was right.
By harley
May 30, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this
Marcus, you are a DB period along with several jealous, uneducated blogger who love to hate due to their own failures. First the Spirit has owned this team for 4 years and in that time they took a total piece of crap franchise that AOL/TimeWarner just ignored and have built a well respected nucleus of a team. Got to the playoffs, does not matter how they did that. Won three games against the so called best team in basketball when everyone on this site talked sweep. And now have hired one of the most respected, intellegenct and honest GM in all of sports.
I do not follow hockey so those who do I will respect their opions. But as far as I am concerned I could not be more happy with how far this team has come in 4 years compared to the AOL nightmare days. Oh yea and all you idiots who talk racism about BK, HE RESIGNED IDIOTS. He was not asked to and did it on his own. So in short all you loosers who cannot get ahead in life and making fun of those who have made a success of their lives mades you feel better. Stay away from what this team is trying to do. Look in the mirror and figure out a way to pick yourself up. You will feel better about yourself in the long run, and hating others who have succeeded will no longer be a crutch.
By RA
May 30, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this
Bradley,
You had a lot of good points in your article. That having been said, I do have some thoughts…
First off, Woodson, don’t you think you’re being a little hard on the beaver. Here’s the thing. With the team that he inherited, very few coaches could have done much better, and there aren’t a lot that would have done as well. Now, had Billy Knight taken the Boston approach, yea, Atlanta could have gotten into the playoffs sooner by mortgaging their future, trading some or all of their first rounders for established NBA talent creeping toward the end of their careers. That would have worked, for about two or three years. They took the long painful route of building through the draft. Basically, until this year Woody was working with a roster that was either too green, too small, or just plain too devoid of talent to compete. With the material on-hand, Phil Jackson as a first time head coach couldn’t have done much better! So, please, when you bring up Woody’s win/loss percentage please respect the context in which it’s framed. It’s called responsible journalism. They have books about it at Barnes & Noble.
Now, as for a straight up trade of Marvin Williams for Damien Wilkins. No. Marvin Williams is 6’9 230 averaging 15 points a game. Damien Wilkins is 6’6 222 averaging 9 points a game and that average wouldn’t have been that high if he hadn’t scored a gillion points off of Atlanta last season… Marvin Williams averaged 5 rebounds a game. Wilkins averaged about 3. Bottomline, Wilkins is a nice tweener who could have a nice career in the right system. Marvin Williams is a man that, even though not Chris Paul or Derron Williams, is going to be a front line player in this league for years. Bottomline Mark Bradley, do your research before you start spewing chunks of stupid everywhere, the wrong people might take you seriously.
By darrell starks
May 30, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this
trade josh smith here why, he can not play smallford beacuse he cant creat his shot off the dribble alhortford is a true power ford if we want to go to the next level you have to get something for him now before its to late his stock is high right now i no he is from atl but i want championships in atl this city is starvin for a winner and bring in avery johnson to coach this team.
By Jay
May 30, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this
Damien Wilkins’ skills were on full display when he smoked the Hawks. He is exactly what we need off the bench and would pair good with Chills.
Damien Wilkins is a 2 Guard, not a tweener. Marv is a SF. Damien played 24 min per game, while Marv averaged 35 min per game. There will be an obvious difference in points and rebounds with an additional 11 min per game. Damiem makes $2.9M, Marv makes $4.4M. We could even get Seattle to throw in the 7 footer Petro to make it work.
Do it SUND!!!!!!!
By ATLplayer
May 30, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this
Virgil Stay….wow! you and 1 + 2 are both lost. What you didn’t mention was that those teams you listed also had in common…none of them made the PLAYOFFS! In case YOU forgot the Hawks did so those teams are not on the Hawks level right now. You may not like Mike Woodson and I get mad at him sometimes too, but the guy EARNED an extension. You can’t look at his won lost record. Billy Knight traded all our winning players away for 2 years to get this team as it is. Plus it’s still flawed with NO center. Give the man a 2 year extension with a true big and see what happens.
By Phillip
May 30, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this
Jay,
Sund just left Seattle (and has connections) and MW is from that area. Perfect fit.
That trade would be good for us, but Seattle will be reluctant with their young forwards Durant and Green. Nice try though.
By Go Hawks
May 30, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this
Should have hired Bradley for the GM job.
By RA
May 30, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this
Props to ATLplayer. He gets it. Darell Starks and Jay, not so much. Trade Josh Smith? Whatever you’re smoking, put it down. I’m sorry, but he is one of those rare players that can change a game with his offense or defense. You don’t trade players like that, YOU BUILD AROUND THEM. As for Damien Wilkins, listen, I said tweener, and that’s what I mean. Could be a two guard, but definately too smallish to be a forward every day. Now, could he come off the bench and play small forward, maybe, but I am fundementally opposed to trading a starter for a bench guy. If you trade Marvin, and I’m not completely opposed to the idea, get that true big that ATLplayer was talking about. Then you’re ready to rock and roll. Damien Wilkins, not so much…
By RA
May 30, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this
Remember one thing Go Hawks. It’s much easier to shout an opinion in a public forum than to risk it at the point of attack. I wouldn’t be Sund right now for all the money in the world.
By priest
May 30, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this
great article, in agreement with everything. i think with the Joshes and Horford you are loaded at the forwards. go ahead and move marvin for a big, and pick up some depth and shooters to come off the bench.
By Plain and Simple
May 30, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this
Mike Woodson has to go!!!!!! He has done nothing since being here in Atlanta! We still haven’t had aq winning season!How hard can it be going 106-22!!??
By ha ha ha
May 30, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this
How can someone call Avery Johnson’s postseason record a flop then turns around and says Mike Woodons deserves an extension. LMAOOOOOOOOOOOOO. Are you serious? Woodson has barely won 100 games in 4 years. People can keep talking about the lack of talent but his coaching cost this team a good 10 wins last season. If you cut Avery Johnsons winning percentage in half its still better than Mike Woodsons. They does not deserve anything. For those of you who forgot, the Hawks backed into the playoffs. They looked terrible during the end run of the regular seasons. If the Pacers didnt choke we are not even talking about the Hawks and the playoffs. We would be talking about how we just lost a lottery pick to the Suns. People have to get over the we took Boston to 7 games. Cleveland did too. Detroit might. We were not even competitive in the road games against Boston. Woodson has no plan on the road. He took players out the game with 2 fouls thus the team getting even farther behind before he realized players dont foul out with only 2 fouls. He played Bibby more than he should . Bibby stunk it up during the playoffs and was outplayed by Law yet Woodpecker stayed with the struggling Bibby. Marvin duck butt Williams had one good game in 7 but was playing minutes as if he was putting up big numbers. Its time for Woodson to go no and if or but about it.
By Luis Malave
May 30, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this
I agree with Mark in everything but keeping the coach. Like you mentioned, the Hawks have a good thing going and they need a better leader at the helm to take it to the next level.
By Ryder
May 30, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this
Any decision Sund makes will be second guessed from here on out, so I agree with RA that I wouldn’t want to be in his shoes right now either.
As for Woodson, if they keep him for a one year extension and then he gets off to a bad start, does that hinder the progress of the franchise having to adjust to a new coach?
While I understand he reached the goal of making the playoffs, it’s best for all parties involved to ask the following question:
Can Mike Woodson lead this team to a championship?
If the answer is No, then cut your losses now and start fresh. Don’t dangle the carrot for one more season, because then what do you do if he makes the playoffs and gets bumped in the first round again? Another one year extension?
Take a look at this franchise and ask yourself: who are the guys this team can build around? Answer: Joe Johnson, Al Horford, and Josh Smith. While Smith may not have a set position on the court, he brings an intangible that championship teams have. While he will give you the occasional headache in the regular season in the postseason players like him are GOLD! Resigning him is a MUST.
Everyone else on this team are complimentary players. Bibby is a great leader and will be playing for the last big contract of his career, expect a monster season from him with a full season with this team. Trading him at high value will work out for all teams involved.
Childress is another player that comes up big and can help you win games without scoring (Game 6 against Boston). I could seriously see a team like the Spurs making a run at him as they know they have to get younger, so Atlanta better not sleep.
I’m not one of those who feel Atlanta should go out of their way to sign a veteran big for a huge contract. See if they can bring David Andersen along first and then go from there.
By roger
May 30, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this
only ATL blacks could turn this move into a race issue. Hahaha!
By bigeasy830
May 30, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this
Now there you go Mark, my brother from another mother, we are back on track. I agree with you on all your points. I agree offer Coach Woodson one year tell him the ball is in your court it’s do or die. To all the readers, man, it will be hard to get rid of Marvin when he may get you 18 a game and you are paying him peanuts. One more year for this team, we should give them one more year, do not be to hasty. Also, I will give props to BK, he drafted the most sought after free agent in this years market at 17, he did some things right, marvin is coming along but, we all know what we missed out on. No, offense to Marvin. But, ohh well you win some you lose some.Joe missed on Darko and could have had, Melo, Bosh or D Wade. So, it is what it is.
P.S. God help the falcons but at least I can now watch NFL games for cheap. The scalpers will take a beating.
By Veteran Fan
May 30, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this
Hire Avery Johnson as he would relate to our young players and get them running! Sign and trade deal: Josh Smith for Luol Deng! Chicago gets possible Michael Jordan without a jump shot and Atlanta gets proven scorer and tough player to compliment Joe Johnson. Resign Josh Childress, smart player who does all the dirty work to win. Trade Bibby and Marvin Williams to Charlotte for Emeka Okafor or sign him as free agent outright! If Bibby leaves sign back-up free agent point from Toronto or promote Law to starter. With this line up we will contend for Eastern division title for 5-8 years as Celtics are one and done and Pistons are just plain done! If we stand pat, watch the Knicks manuever and spend and become the next power in the East! We will not make the playoffs next season and probably only finish ahead of the Pacers. Please do not forget that we were 8 games under 500 in the weaker division in the league!
By RA
May 30, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this
Who the deuce is David Andersen?
By RA
May 30, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this
Nevermind, I looked him up. He’s got this creepy flesh colored mustache and a face that could scare a man, but he had a good year with the Russians, and he’s a center, I’m sold.
By nique
May 30, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this
Does anyone (including Mr. Sund) really think that Mike Woodson can lead the Hawks out of the first round of the playoffs even with a somewhat upgraded team? I realize that they were a game 7 away from it this year but they got killed in that game and every other game on the road, and that is the closest they will get to the 2nd round with Woodson.
Woodson couldn’t get these players to work consistently on defense, couldn’t improve poor shot selection, couldn’t draw up plays other than JJ iso’s, and couldn’t motivate his team enough to get up for a game 7 against a team he could have painted as Goliath. Also, I don’t believe that he can improve these players any more than they could improve themselves.
Woody should not be given another contract, Joshes should def be signed, and Bibby should be traded. I guess it makes sense to see how he does before trading him, but I guess if he fails at that point all you’re trading is his expiring contract. If you trade him now, you might actually get some talent for him. I’m less clear on when he should be traded than that he should be traded.
By darrell starks
May 30, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this
ra. i respect your opion but i have to disagree with you trading josh smith wont hurt this team if you can get some one who can make your team better, hear my starting five bibby at point joe johson at big guard adrea igludolla at smallford from sixers who can score 22points a night plus a great defender on the premter and he can take lots of preasure of joe johson to many time we have to depend on joe to win us games. powerford alhartford at center kwame brown he is still young a good coach would make him better bench player acie law,josh chil,marvin william, zaza, and sollom who is slowly getting better.we wont championship in this city.
By DawginLex
May 30, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this
Hey Mark,
Sidebar question:
Are you the same Mark Bradley that is from KY and played a little baseball up here(I’m in Lexington) ???
I like your ideas. The Hawks need some sort of consistenct and continuity.
For a little perspective, here are the topics of the day on the Lexington Herald Leader blogs and message boards:
Did Derrick Jasper’s transfer papers come in today ?
Will DeAndre Liggins qualify for entrance into UK to run the point next year ?
How are Patterson and Meeks progressing from their surgeries ?
Gotta love Kentucky where basketball is 365/24
By Mark Bradley
May 30, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this
I’m from Kentucky — Maysville, actually — but I never played baseball above Knothole level. (Perhaps you’re thinking of the Mark Bradley from Elizabethtown, who played pro ball.)
And, having lived and worked in Lexington, I have to confess I got a little bored hearing about one sport every day of the year. That’s pretty much why I wanted to come to Atlanta — lots of variety here.
By HB Ando
May 30, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this
I love the fact that your recommendations don’t address the fact that the ASG would have to increase it’s payroll by between$12-$15 million to re-sign the Josh’s and keep Bibby for next year. A fact that is largely prohibitive to your sugggestions, and downright amateurish of you to neglect to mention.
What component of this organization’s track record leads you to believe this is even possible? Do they not still need to find a $150 million, or so, to buy out Belkin?
Despite how unrealistic (and, thus, irresponsible) your article is, I doubt it will stop you from castigating ownership when they exhibit their financial reality by either moving Bibby, or engaging in a sign-and-trade of Childress (I do agree that Josh Smith is far too unique, even with the remaining question marks to his overall game, to allow to leave).
I know this reality didn’t escape you, when constructing this opine. So it underscores that you’re offering nothing more than a “fantasy hoops’ GM” perspective, when very real fiscal restrictions are obviously at play.
It’s kind of akin to someone wanting a new Porsche, and expecting to get it for $20,000; dimwitted and wholly unlikely.
By HB Ando
May 30, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this
I love the fact that your recommendations don’t address the fact that the ASG would have to increase it’s payroll by between$12-$15 million to re-sign the Josh’s and keep Bibby for next year. A fact that is largely prohibitive to your sugggestions, and downright amateurish of you to neglect to mention.
What component of this organization’s track record leads you to believe this is even possible? Do they not still need to find a $150 million, or so, to buy out Belkin?
Despite how unrealistic (and, thus, irresponsible) your article is, I doubt it will stop you from castigating ownership when they exhibit their financial reality by either moving Bibby, or engaging in a sign-and-trade of Childress (I do agree that Josh Smith is far too unique, even with the remaining question marks to his overall game, to allow to leave).
I know this reality didn’t escape you, when constructing this opine. So it underscores that you’re offering nothing more than a “fantasy hoops’ GM” perspective, when very real fiscal restrictions are obviously at play.
It’s kind of akin to someone wanting a new Porsche, and expecting to get it for $20,000; dimwitted and wholly unlikely.
By HB Ando
May 30, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this
I love the fact that your recommendations don’t address the fact that the ASG would have to increase it’s payroll by between$12-$15 million to re-sign the Josh’s and keep Bibby for next year. A fact that is largely prohibitive to your sugggestions, and downright amateurish of you to neglect to mention.
What component of this organization’s track record leads you to believe this is even possible? Do they not still need to find a $150 million, or so, to buy out Belkin?
Despite how unrealistic (and, thus, irresponsible) your article is, I doubt it will stop you from castigating ownership when they exhibit their financial reality by either moving Bibby, or engaging in a sign-and-trade of Childress (I do agree that Josh Smith is far too unique, even with the remaining question marks to his overall game, to allow to leave).
I know this reality didn’t escape you, when constructing this opine. So it underscores that you’re offering nothing more than a “fantasy hoops’ GM” perspective, when very real fiscal restrictions are obviously at play.
It’s kind of akin to someone wanting a new Porsche, and expecting to get it for $20,000; dimwitted and wholly unlikely.
By Orlando
May 30, 2008 6:56 PM | Link to this
Good points Ando, but you only need to make it once, k?
I see Atlanta letting both Joshes go since they won’t have enough money to resign them in sign and trade deals. They will need to trade Bibby or let his $14.5 million contract eat up any remaining cap space.
Sund is extremely limited in what he can do because of the poor finanical situation the ASG is in right now.
I believe that’s why BK left, because he saw nothing at the end of the tunnel regarding the finances. He knew they wouldn’t have the money to resign the Joshes and he was smart enough to leave so he would not be the scapegoat when it happens.
By HB Ando
May 30, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this
Semi-sorry, Orlando, but the server didn’t load my first attempt to “post”.
Besides, anytime there’s a real opportunity to underscore Mr. Bradley’s half-assed writing, it’s usually worth saying twice…..
And I think Billy’s leaving was pre-emptive, as he was going to be lame duck, at best, if he stayed. Now he can simply blame the ASG for his failings in the draft.