By J.Rich

April 29, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this

My my my Mr.Schultz what is the world coming to. You’re the one that wrote the Hawks off even before thr playoff began, now all of a sudden they have a chance, you’re so full of it. Reading anything you post is worthless, ever sat down and thought for a minute that maybe you should try writting about sports for another city. Everything you write about sports in Atlanta is negative, now all of a sudden you’re being positive, please. Do us all a favor and go away, fair weather fans like yourself aren’t needed around here. Go Hawks!

By Herschel Talker

April 29, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this

No. It’s a fluke. They’ll get pummelled by 20 points in Boston.

When’s kickoff?

By J.Rich

April 29, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this

Hey Celtic fans. Not if but when we come up there and take game five there wont be no need for yall to tune in to game six back here in Atlanta. Go Hawks!

By Larry Bird

April 29, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this

Bring back little shorts.

By Bob Weiss

April 29, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this

I could have done coached this team better than Woodson. He has no clue.

By Bob Weiss

April 29, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this

I could have coached this team better than Woodson. He has no clue.

By jrichisamoron

April 29, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this

jrich, shultz is a journalist not a fan. why dont you go away?

By Andre

April 29, 2008 8:25 PM | Link to this

Lol, @ Little shorts. Great column Schultz.

By Tyger

April 29, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this

How does that crow (dirty bird) taste now?

By Pete Babcock

April 29, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this

Bahh Humbugh !

By The Mule Said

April 29, 2008 8:30 PM | Link to this

What a heavy load I’m carrying. A Bunch of Bandwagon Fans All Aboard!

By GTHawksfan

April 29, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this

While it’s a little belated, it’s nice to see Atlanta sports writers rallying behind the Hawks. Had anyone cared to look, they would have noticed that Josh Smith is one of the most explosive players in the league, that Joe Johnson is a top-quality scorer, and that Al Horford is the obvious rookie of the year candidate.

Atlanta has so much to be proud of in it’s Hawks. I do believe we can win this series, but even if they don’t, the national coverage has been great for them. I think the Hawks will emerge as unquestioned playoff contenders next season, and that they may finally get some recognition from the national press and most importantly, Atlanta fans.

By Bobby Petrino

April 29, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this

I’m with Herschel - it is a fluke. These Hawks suck from top to bottom and if Woodson isn’t out the day after the playoffs, it will be a travesty.

JShultz - good job!

By Rock Preston

April 29, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this

Jeff, don’t bring your bald head a** on the train now jack. Them boys are gonna take it to the Celtics. YEAHHHH!!!!!

By Munzir

April 29, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this

The media was not wrong about the Hawks in the beginning, because stats do not lie. Yet, Stats fail to show the heart and effort.

For a team that is considered average, to do well in the playoffs is to show effort. Back it up with heart and you have a series. Yet, Atlanta Hawks rose above expectations and never let the negative hype get to them.

Hawks never let others decide their own destiny. I admit, I was not a fan of Coach Woodson.

For him to have a contract in the next two years, these next two games will determine that.

One of the owners said that if the Hawks do well in Round One, it is not a gurantee that the Coach may be re-signed. The key for Woodson is consistancy.

I like Coach Woodson’s attitude, we are here to win a Championship, it was the opposite attitude from the Nugget’s leadership. What is the difference between Nuggets and Hawks? Heart.

I am very proud of the Atlanta Hawks. They deserve it, the City deserves it. Atlanta has a very diverse fan base compared to some other cities, including Boston. People of different backgrounds, enjoying a game together. I went to three games in Boston and there isn’t enough of that.

We, as Atlantans are tired of being the Joke of the Sports World, and Boston being the King of the Sports World. It is time for things to turn around.

Go Hawks!

By Kobe Washington Jackson O'neil

April 29, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this

I think the problem is quite obvious if you care to take a look at it. With the economic stimulus package in place and being doled out starting this week, major industry investments will lanquish along with off shore vegetable platters. Basketball included. The cheese will no longer rise to the challenge of most industrialized farm cows and pennies saved will franchise the offspring coherently. Simply put… Basketball is slow death. The most boring, trivial, worthless sport ever played. Sprinkle that illusion thusly while deep-freezing your granola. I think I’ve made my point so go watch your silly little games.

By Chris G

April 29, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this

I am very excited about this young, athletic team. This experience will benefit them for the future. Also, I am happy to see Woodson allowing this team to run. We get past the first round and anything can happen. GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!

By A Real Fan

April 29, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this

If Emotion and Heart gets us past the Celtics. Will we have anything left for the 2nd round?

By Falcons stink

April 29, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this

Hey ATL - Bout’ time your loser city has a team that actually wins a meaningful game unlike the paper tigers over at the TED. Again, when was the last time a team in Atlanta was relevant?? That’s what I figured. Go back to cheering for dog killers.

By Dominique

April 29, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this

I said I would not buy another Hawks ticket after the game 6 loss to the Celtics in the series that led to the Nique-Bird showdown in game 7 (88?). That was such a devastating loss. I tuned in to this series’ game 3 just curious to see how empty Philips Arena would be and see how big the Celtics lead was. Of course, I was shocked at what I saw and I haven’t turned away from the tv since. This is an exciting team and I hope this is a sign of things to come. All I know is I haven’t seen this kind of energy since the 80’s.

By Chris G

April 29, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

Hey Falcons,

Do you got your feelings hurt! Is your “All Stars” not getting any respect? Are you enjoying watching young Al Horford slam on KG? How about Joe Johnson lighting up the floor? Josh Smith slapping shots every which way? Maybe Zaza punking KG? You better hope your OLD team takes advantage of it’s home court advantage. Because this young athletic maturing team will beat them like a drum in the years to come. GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Seeer

April 29, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this

Hey Herschel Talker…kick off? How could you miss it?? CSS is showing the Red and Black game again for like the 100th time! Dude just go bang your head in a wall until next fall! Until then let’s let the Hawks have their moment in the sun and enjoy some exciting Hawks basketball! Beginning to feel a little like the Braves in 91!

Go Hawks!!

By Jeff

April 29, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this

Nice column, Schultzy…. I think a LOT of people are thinking like you are, as in “Who the duck is this team and why haven’t they been ducking playing like this all year?” I must admit, I was skeptical… i was happy to see Atlanta in the playoffs, and I just wanted to maybe win 1 game, be competitive… then after the 2 blowouts, I wanted it to end mercifully. But somewhere, this team started to gell and grow up, and it’s been fun to watch. Did you see that atmosphere at Philips Monday night? It was incredible! Did you see the Hawks lead the SportsCenter highlights? It was amazing! It made me think back to my high school days, when ‘Nique and Spud and Doc and Wittman and Willis and Carr and Levingston and Battle and Koncak were a strong team in the east, winning 50-plus games a year and throwing some serious scares into Boston or Detroit in the playoffs each year. This team has looked good the last 2 games, and while they may not win the series, let’s take it for what it is - some EXCITEMENT at Philips, some positive momentum for the offseason and most importantly, some HOPE that we’re seeing a young, up-and-coming team develop right before our eyes.

By UGADAWGS23

April 29, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this

Jeff Schultz, you don’t like any sport teams in Atlanta. Stop trying to jump on the bandwagon. You were bashing them when they were bad. Get off the bandwagon. You are not a good sports writer. Getting on the Falcons case before they even hit the field. If you are trying to be funny, you’re not.

By UGADAWGS23

April 29, 2008 10:06 PM | Link to this

Jeff Schultz, you don’t like any sport teams in Atlanta. Stop trying to jump on the bandwagon. You were bashing them when they were bad. Get off the bandwagon. You are not a good sports writer. Getting on the Falcons case before they even hit the field. If you are trying to be funny, you’re not.

By Najeh Davenpoop

April 29, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this

Actually not a bad column. Let’s face it, very few of us, even the most die-hard fans among us, thought the Hawks would be 2-2 in this series. And let’s face it, very few of us think they will pull it out even now. They have been playing a little over their heads the last two games, but there’s no question they have the talent to win more than 37 in a season, and they’re showing it now. So if Jeff Schultz is just now jumping on the bandwagon, he’s certainly not alone.

By Ben

April 29, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this

“Were we wrong about the Hawks all along?”

No—you were.

By Hollywood

April 29, 2008 11:15 PM | Link to this

Imagine the Hawks going to Boston and winning game 7 by a point on Joe Johnson’s three-pointer right in front of a disgusted Steve Belkin. Hollywood couldn’t write a better script.

Steve Harvey would play coach Woodson, Corky from “Life Goes On” could play Billy Knight, Matthew McConaghey could play Joe Johnson, Woody Harrelson from “White Men Can’t Jump” could play Josh Smith, and uh, I give up.

Just call the movie “The Atlanta Hawks”

By Price

April 29, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this

I’ll go ahead and admit that I have been a partial fair weather fan. I’ll cheer for the Hawks when they play, unless they play the Spurs and Hornets, but I cheer more for the Braves and the Falcons and I never thought that they would make the playoffs. The Hawks used to be the joke of the NBA. Now, people who doubted the Hawks, like myself, are the joke. I believe that this takes Atlanta to a new level of basketball. With Bibby, Johnson, Williams, and Childress, the Hawks can turn into a true contender in the East.

By Price

April 29, 2008 11:35 PM | Link to this

I’ll go ahead and admit that I have been a partial fair weather fan. I’ll cheer for the Hawks when they play, unless they play the Spurs and Hornets, but I cheer more for the Braves and the Falcons and I never thought that they would make the playoffs. The Hawks used to be the joke of the NBA. Now, people who doubted the Hawks, like myself, are the joke. I believe that this takes Atlanta to a new level of basketball. With Bibby, Johnson, Williams, and Childress, the Hawks can turn into a true contender in the East.

By hawk fan in new orleans

April 29, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this

Go Joe Johnson!!! U Can Do It!!! ALL NITE LONG.

By Tim Dawg

April 29, 2008 11:53 PM | Link to this

J Rich you are so right

By Tim Dawg

April 29, 2008 11:53 PM | Link to this

J Rich you are so right

By JSS

April 29, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this

Crow!!! Crow!!! Crow!!! Crow!!! You NO TALENT HACK!!!

Hey Jeffy, How’s Woodson’s buttocks taste? Crow!!! Crow!!! Crow!!!

By Dan

April 29, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this

I was in Las Vegas for a convention before the playoffs started. 40-1 odds to win the series. I couldn’t resist. Now I wish I put down mo money so I could pay off my house. Seriously, I’m proud of these Hawks. Yes, Boston is the better team, on paper. BUT last time I checked the team with the most points and wins takes the series—PERIOD. GO HAWKS!!

By Reggie

April 30, 2008 12:06 AM | Link to this

Jeff,

Did athletes take your lunch money in high school?

By Hmmmm!

April 30, 2008 12:13 AM | Link to this

yep!

By DJ

April 30, 2008 2:43 AM | Link to this

Schultz, Was dead wrong for constantly killing this team and calling for the coach’s job when the team didn’t have a healthy viable point guard for most of the season. This is a young team, they play with more heart and emotion than skill. Anything can happen and the Hawks are not afraid. People..pay attention we just beat the best team in basketball twice. Hold on to your hats because our Hawks are trying to make history. You should all be proud of what a winning team can do for this city. Go Hawks!!

By se ashe

April 30, 2008 3:32 AM | Link to this

atlantans consider attending more hawks home game not just playoff games..congrads to the hawks…

By Alex

April 30, 2008 8:06 AM | Link to this

Yes, Jeff Schultz, you were wrong about the Hawks all along.

Now resign.

By Jon Koncak

April 30, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

**To those in shock:

I, for one, am not surprised! I, with my vast league experience, have believed all along that my former team was going to hit their stride. That said, they are still a “true big man” away from closing the deal here and gaining dynasty status.

Billy Knight, my legs are fresh after 12 years rest and I can ABSOLUTELY carry them into the finals this year and be the centerpiece of the team for the next 7-8 years!

So, Mr. Knight, how about you draw up that $113 million contract, phone my agent, & I’ll put fresh ink on the dotted line before game-time tonight! I’ve just been working out & waiting for the team to jell…

Awaiting your call,

~Jon Koncak~ Cell is 555-CON-TRCT**

By Henley

April 30, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this

I am one of the Hawks fans who bought Game 3 tickets two weeks before the season was over because I wanted the Hawks in the playoffs. Then went and bought ten more for game 6 after the first quarter comeback in game 4. Has anyone brought up the fact that Bibby’s comments in Boston took a lot of pressure off the younger Hawks when they came back to Atlanta? Bibby has taken the backseat leadership role that the Hawks acquired him to take. He came out in the first half of game 4 and set the tone, and then helped Joe and J-Smith take advantage of their match-up advantages in the second half. He’s setting picks and making passes that allow him to make everyone else better. His assist numbers may not be spectacular, but he is doing the little things to help this team win. Bibby is the silent leader … Horford is the emotional leader … J-Smith is the excitement … J-Chill is the hustle … Zaza is the enforcer (once the veteran got the idea from Horford) … Solomon Jones is even getting in on the action … Marvin is learning … and Joe Johnson has looked Jordan-esque in learning how to single-handedly take over a game.

I came into this playoff match-up thinking that maybe, just maybe, Boston’s Three-Party sould continue their horrid past playoff experiences and the Hawks would have a chance … but when Mike Woodson decided to turn the Hawks into D’Antoni’s “Run ‘n Gun” Suns and sprint up and down the floor against the Celtics, the chance they had turned into a reality. If the Hawks can stay within 5 or 6 turnovers of the Celtics (which has only happened once this series) in Boston, the WILL win game 5 … and can you even imagine the atmosphere in the Highlight Factory on Friday night if they have the opportunity to close out the series at home? Just the chance to see that happen is worth more than any price I could pay for a ticket. Go Hawks!

By TJ

April 30, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this

To be honest, Mr. Schultz, this column did nothing for me…you ask the question but then you didn’t answer it. I was scrolling down, just waiting for you to drop a hammer on the Hawks, but instead, you punked out. You didn’t really admit to jumping the bandwagon either, you’re just in shock.

To be honest, Woody has been saying the same thing to this team ALL SEASON: defend, rebound, run and make plays. He actually has. They just never grasped the concept for 45 losses, probably half of which should have been wins - if they knew what they know now. Defend, rebound, run and make plays, they have to impose that upon the other team. Just because they get paid millions to play or Just because they’re athletic doesn’t mean it’s gonna happen; they gotta make it happen. They have to not back down and impose their will on their opponent. And do it with poise, on top of their emotion, which they’ve had before. They have poise now, and that’s how they’ve won games 3 and 4.

Our Hawks understand that now, and now, they go to Boston, as a real team with a great chance to make some Bostonians and gamblers in Vegas commit suicide. I wonder who on ESPN or TNT tonight will be bold enough to pick ATL to win tonight…if it’s no one, no prob, just like Mr. Schultz, maybe they were wrong all along.

DON’T BE SATISFIED!

By Coach Hinz

April 30, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this

I agree with Koncak. Bring em back! That would psychologically intimidate the Celtics. Do you still use that fancy gel to hold your mullet in place? What about that 12 inch vertical? And I know that you still have those booty shorts somewhere around.

By McRly?

April 30, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this

Hey Stultzie, I see you got those pom-poms I sent you.

And by the way

I told you so

GO HAWKS

By Julio Jenkins

April 30, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this

First and foremost congratulations Hawks! This has been great to watch. I hope for the best and hope that you can pull off this, now, 3-game series.

Unfortunately, even with that said, Woody needs to go. I don’t think the team responds to him and a majority of the season they did not play with a clue. That is on Woody. I don’t think he knows how coach up the player. J-Smoove is getting better but I don’t think that has anything to do with Woody’s coaching.

The problem is…who do the Hawks get to replace him?

With that being said…Go Hawks!

By bigeasy830

April 30, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

Many of us are not bandwagon fans. Its just hard to support a team that is, well, terible and lets face its the Hawks have been terrible. I am a die hard Atlanta and state of Georgia sports fan, but, I am also a realist. No way would any sports buff predict this effort from the Hawks. I just wanted them to show some fight. People are supporting the Hawks now because they are winning and showing some fight. Hint, Falcons, wins and loses are the only thing that matters. You do not market a person to be the face of the franchise, the face of the franchise is chosen by the fans after that players play warrents it. “Build it and they will come”. “Just win baby, win”. That is what matters. If the Hawks stop fighting and lose this series due to lack of effort and start the next season sucking, if the UGA bulldogs mens basketball team do the same. The fans will turn on them. Thats what being a “Fanatic” is all about. If the franchise do not care or is to stupid to put a quality product out for its consumers then how can you expect the consumer to support that franchise and that product.

Holla if you hear me, Say Amen if you fell me.

By one66soul

April 30, 2008 10:12 AM | Link to this

Where’s Ashton?

ZAZA Punked KG

By Old Blue

April 30, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this

Oh if Bibby could hit some shots this time and the Hawks made a few free throws and they didn’t turn the ball over on silly passes and they wouldn’t shoot those jump shots and Chill remembered where that slippery spot was on the floor and…

By coreyc

April 30, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

Hope the Hawks pull of the upset, but then hope it would still mean dumb and dumber are fired at the end of it all.

By Jon Koncak

April 30, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this

Coach Hinz:

That was a very unkind remark about my 12 inch vertical leap. When someone is 7 feet tall like me, they don’t have to jump over 12-14 inches to be effective. And btw, my vertical was AND STILL IS is 14 inches anyway!!! (TAKE NOTE, BILLY KNIGHT — YOU NEED ME!!!)

Coach Hinz, no…I no longer use “fancy hair gel” or have a mullet. If you didn’t know, mullets went out sometime in late 2007 and accordingly, I got rid of mine. I’m wnow sporting a hip new “fade haircut” that Cheryl down at my salon told me about. (Tell her I sent you, she will give you a 10% discount). BTW, I sometimes wear a “3.2 ppg” etched into the left side of my hair signifying my lifetime (so far) average!

About my “tight shorts”…I hate to offend any current players but I can only tell it the way I see it. The baggy “shorts” of today’s NBA uniforms are closer to Mary Tyler Moore capri pants than a uniform a real man like myself or Manute Bol would wear. Any more questions you let me know. But don’t tie up my agent’s phone, Billy Knight is going to ink me to a multi-year, I guarantee!

By Doc Rivers

April 30, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this

GO Hawks. Some of us saw the talent in this team all along. They are having a great run and who knows how far they can go. All the way I hope. That being said; Woody is still a horrible coach. His substitution patterns and lack of play calling is legendary. Solo and Stodimier and Law should be much more prepared than they are. He had point guards, he just didn’t let them play enough or develope them enough. Go Hawks..Go away Woody…

By Vick Supporter

April 30, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

If we can get anything out of Marvin Williams, we can win. Its funny how Atlanta fans work, ya’ll just hated the Hawks last week, lol. Bunch of clowns.

By Q

April 30, 2008 10:59 AM | Link to this

I must say that the atmosphere at Philips Arena on Monday night was incredible, and I am so happy that I was able to experience it. What I saw from the those kids playing from ATL made me proud. The hustle in them and the fact that they did not back down was great. I told my husband after the game that maybe if we fans had supported them during the regular season, they probably would have been a much better regular season team. I am big sports fan, but I stopped watching professional sports because of the attitudes and arrogance of the players.

Well, I for one am coming back to the fold. Going forward, I will definitely support this team, and go to as many games as I can next season. I think these young men can create something special. I got the impression that these guys are work-horses and will rise to the occasion especially if they know what is at home-base waiting for them. I think that the missing piece….the fan-base and excitement. The NBA had better watch out next season because I think that the Hawks will be out to prove

With that said…..LET’S GO HAWKS! My husband will be in the building on friday night, and I will be in front of my TV rooting!

By Q

April 30, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this

I must say that the atmosphere at Philips Arena on Monday night was incredible, and I am so happy that I was able to experience it. What I saw from the those kids playing from ATL made me proud. The hustle in them and the fact that they did not back down was great. I told my husband after the game that maybe if we fans had supported them during the regular season, they probably would have been a much better regular season team. I am big sports fan, but I stopped watching professional sports because of the attitudes and arrogance of the players.

Well, I for one am coming back to the fold. Going forward, I will definitely support this team, and go to as many games as I can next season. I think these young men can create something special. I got the impression that these guys are work-horses and will rise to the occasion especially if they know what is at home-base waiting for them. I think that the missing piece….the fan-base and excitement. The NBA had better watch out next season because I think that the Hawks will be out to prove

With that said…..LET’S GO HAWKS! My husband will be in the building on friday night, and I will be in front of my TV rooting!

By jimh

April 30, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this

In most of your Hawks prognostications you used the word “I” a lot. Now that that your opinions and observations of the Hawks are obviously mistaken you’re substituting the word “I” for “We”. Sounds like you’re not taking responsibility for your own words.

We is a team word, so write about Tennis or Golf and leave the Hawks alone, or, go to NY where others who write like you tend to flourish. I think “We” would like like that!

By Robert Frank

April 30, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this

Here is an interesting video. http://www.nba.com/hawks/multimedia/GetFiredUpBostonVideo.html

By Darrin "The Vent King"

April 30, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this

Why I love seeing you ajc sportswriters FORCED to write something positive about an Atlanta franchise FOR ONCE, I whole-heartedly believe this amazing series is more to do than what the Hawks have brought to it. I really believe the Celtic’s bad, smug, arrogant karma has come back to haunt them in the worst way. I heard an analogy on the radio that describes it perfectly- Appollo Creed in Rocky I. Remember how full of himself he got when presented with Rocky Balboa as his opponent? How when his coach told him to stop going toe to toe with this guy and just tie him up in that last round and win but he HAD to knock him out just to satisfy his own arrogant pride? Well, I akin this to watching Sam Cassell doing his stupid dance on our floor after shooting three’s when the game was decided already that last game of the regular season and the guys on the bench including Garnett and Pierce having a ball laughing at the Hawks. They brought that disrespect and arrogance with them into this series and just knew they were going breeze right through the Hawks. They just didn’t realize this team is more talented than they have been coached during the regular season at times. They are young, athletic, and totally unaware of how things are “supposed” to go. And just like Rocky, they are here to just play their best and NOT to show anyone up, laugh at anyone, or disrespect folks and karma is on their side for that. Even if they don’t win this series, just “going the distance” is going to do a world of good for these young Hawks and it feels great to see it. SEE Y’ALL FRIDAY NIGHT BABY!

GO HAWKS!!!

By Robert Frank

April 30, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this

Here is an interesting video. http://www.nba.com/hawks/multimedia/GetFiredUpBostonVideo.html

By rc31

April 30, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this

Excellent, entertaining column. This has been fun to watch.

By rc31

April 30, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this

Excellent, entertaining column. This has been fun to watch.

By Matt

April 30, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this

If by “were we?” you mean “was I?”, then yes, I believe we were wrong about the Hawks.

By King Randor In Eternia

April 30, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this

Go Hawks,

Here in Eternia we LOVE the hawks! We hope that there is not a repeat from 87-88 though, we still have not gotten over that :(

NOTHING CAN STOP US, NOTHING CAN STOP US, NOTHING CAN STOP US WERE ATLANTA’S AIR FORCE

BTW: BRING BACK THE OLD PACMAN UNIFORMS FROM THE 80S BEST HAWKS UNIFORM BAR NONE!

By JC33

April 30, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this

I lived in Atlanta for 3 years and had to deal with Jeff Schultz crappy articles. He has no joy writing this and is a piece of garbage. If you go and write an article bashing them if they lose the next two games it shows YOU have no integrity or heart. Atlanta writers are the worst.

By Ryder

April 30, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

Here’s what I think happened: Atlanta woke up and realized the time for inconsistency was OVER! Woodson realized what this team’s best chances for winning were and most importantly, the players bought into that plan.

As a result a chemistry has developed that hasn’t been there since the Mookie and Smitty days. They know that tonight is going to be a major challenge in Boston and no one will expect them to win, so they must believe in each other and not try to win the game themselves.

Tonight will show if Woodson has what it takes to lead this team to greener pastures.

Everything we’ve talked about for the past four years comes down to tonight. They’ve been punched in the face, they’ve woke up, and now understand what it takes to win in the playoffs, and that’s to be nasty but not stupid.

By Obi-Ron

April 30, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this

I don’t read the AJC very often because I am stationed in Virginia. However, I have followed the Hawks since I was a young boy. People call ATL the worst sports city in America because of its’ booshy fans. I’m not an ATLian, but I am a GA native and I have always supported GA teams. Having said that, I am very proud to see the Hawks playing at this level and I believe, win or lose, they have no where to go but up. I don’t want to think about the coach, GM or ownership right now. I just want to enjoy watching these guys play with heart and energy. I do agree with Mr. Shultz when he says we should just enjoy the ride while it lasts. Let’s worry about all of the other crap after the season is officially over. Hopefully, that won’t be anytime soon. Go Hawks!!!

By Marbo

April 30, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

Great Post, Darrin “The Vent King” You couldn’t have made more insightful points as to why the Celtics are struggling, and the Hawks are shocking the basketball world.

By O'brien

April 30, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this

Lets not get carried away with giving Woodson too much credit. We are young and athletic, so why havent we been running all year? We still have no half court offense, and isnt it obvious that Solomon deserved more PT during the season? Plus JRich, Salim, and Mario all recieved inconsistent PT, and AC Law did not get to play through his rookie mistakes like CP3 and Deron did. And lets face it, Doc Rivers did not make good adjustments during the game. The Hawks played great, and I hope we can keep it going tonight. Lets go Hawks!

By NBA-Fan

April 30, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

I’m happy for the Hawks. I never expected this, but you have to admit THIS IS A STRANGE BALL CLUB. They don’t play the game the way it is supposed to be played. That is why when they lose they look absolutly disgusting and when they win they astound us with their athletic play. Is this a maturity/player issue or a coaching problem? I do not intend to suggest that Woodson does not know what they should be doing (I’m sure he is more frustrated by their play than anybody else), but rather that there is an inability to effectively communicate, i.e. TO GET THE POINTS ACCROSS. I also think that the central figure in all this wierdness (both good and bad) is Josh Smith.

AJC, How about a blog on Hawk’s style of play. I would like to know what others think!

By Schultz is a DOLT

April 30, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

Jeff, you are the biggest back pedaling schlump out there. You writing is boring. You are cocky and not funny.

By Jack

April 30, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

J. Rich -you know damn well you didn’t think the Hawks could win against the Celtics especially down 2-0. So put a sock in it. You really sound LIKE A MORON!!!!! Jeff Shultz hit the nail square on the head for what 99.99999 % of us thought. Instead of whining and Monday morning quarterbacking take the man’s advice and enjoy the ride.

By Jack Barnes

April 30, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this

J. Rich, You are showing yourself to be a MORON!! Jeff Shultz had it right. No one including your lying a$$ thought the Hawks stood a chance against Boston. esp. after going down 2-0.

By WW5

April 30, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

MAKE SCHULTZ AN HONORARY TOWEL BOY FOR GAME 6

By Bubba

April 30, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

I think Schultzie is all whack-a-doo because he has to say something nice. Good giggly-wiggly! The Braves had their playoff run, but the stories are about the empty seats. The Falcons win because - hey, even a blind squirrel gets a nut. Thrashers? Hell, the only thing rednecks like on ice is Busch. Dawgs? Big deal, they can’t beat Florida. And all them players acting like - GASP - college students? Jackets? Female students don’t go to class, they go to graze.

So what to do about these Hawks? Yeah, Schultzie, you had to throw in the losing record. That’s standard cut-and-paste. But Belkin and the peace treaty? Zazu to Wilt? That’s good stuff, Schultzie. I think the Hawks are playing above the cut-and-paste diatribe we’ve been hearing these last years. Even if they lose to the Celtics overall, that they have you looking down the rabbit hole is a good thing.

By GABred

April 30, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this

Satisfying? Not close. We’re just scratching the surface. Just imagine what we’re going to do to teams when we start to execute our half court sets and play some team defense. And start to take care of the ball. I’m just glad the 12-man roster began to see in themselves, what we’ve seen in them all season. Possessing greatness is simply potential, believing in your greatness creates victories, maximizing your greatness equals champions. Ask Al Halford about championship pedigree. Time for our HAWKS to spread their wings and soar to new heights!!!

By Justin

April 30, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this

NO SHULTZ, WE WERE NOT WRONG! YOU WERE! THAT WAS YOUR PLAYER HATING A**!

GO HAWKS!!

By Ryder

April 30, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this

Honestly I don’t know if you really can pinpoint a particular problem with the Hawks because they weren’t constructed in a way typical teams are built.

Usually teams in the NBA build first with either a PG or Center and then put the wing players around them. The idea is usually to build a team capable of winning in the playoffs with a half-court offense. Atlanta was built by BK with the vision of running teams out of the gym. Seems to be working.

I don’t know if it will eventually win championships, but I think you can win in that fashion if you are disciplined enough to share the ball.

By Billy Knight

April 30, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this

How do you like us now, Mr. Belkin? Still think we got the short end of the stick in the Johnson-Diaw trade? Go bury yourself in your hole in Boston; I hope you never come back to Atlanta.

By Jimv

April 30, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

One of the most enjoyable columns I’ve read in a long time. Thanks, Jeff!

By Mickel

April 30, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this

The true measure of a group is when they are faced with adversity……. Throughout these last three years, Coach Woodson has remained a class act, and has chosen to focus on rebuilding the team through the lack of a true point guard, death of a promising young big man, and countless injuries and transactions that are never planned as the coach. Many are suprised at the Hawks’ success, but these are professional players who have won on many different levels. You have our ROY in Horford who has just won two championships at the collegiate level. You have All-Stars and future All-Stars in Bibby, Johnson, Smith, and a decent supporting cast, and truly you have a series. Heart and emotion can not be understated in this series. I firmly believe that this has allowed the ‘inner-winner’ to be pushed out of the Hawks and they have tasted it, wanting more of it. The important thing is that this core group should be kept. Anything they do is gravy because no one expected them to still be in it. Go far, Hawks. We applaud you Woody. Horford, thanks for the Ali tape and grab your ROY trophy, and thank you the rest of the team for restoring our faith in Hawks basketball.

By Calvin

April 30, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this

The young Hawks team is looking like the old Hawks team in the 80’s!! Josh Smith is the new Human High light!Go Hawks!!!

By AL4ROY

April 30, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

Just think, this is only year 1 of the Atlanta Hawks! They finally get a good team together (Bibby trade, drafing Big Al) and in their first year they make the playoffs, then at least win 2 games (hopefully more). Pretty much all of our players are very young. There is not a single player on their roster older then 30, 4 of their starting 5 are under 27 (3 being under 23) and 10 of their 13 players are 25 or under. They are a very young team that as long as Knight keeps them around, will only get better in the next few years. If they do this to Boston this year, just wait untill 3 or 4 years.

By NeXt cOAch

April 30, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this

Ladies and Gentlemen the new coach of the Atlanta Hawks - Avery Johnson

By Alex G.

April 30, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this

ATTENTION HAWKS FANS:

If we win or lose this series with Boston dont worry, the young high flying Hawks are on the verge of bieng a major power in the Eastern Conference. I’ve been saying it all year, the pieces are in place for this young team to really make its mark in this league in the years to come. The Hawks are the youngest team in the playoffs and if ths team stays together they will run all challengers out of the gym by halftime by the 2009-10 season.

By scottbravesfan

April 30, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this

The Hawks drew over 16,000 fans a game, so it’s not a stretch for them to fill up the building for playoff games. You guys act like they are the Tampa Bay Rays or Florida Marlins in terms of fan support.

By Lon Kruger

April 30, 2008 7:04 PM | Link to this

They still suck, they are a bad team. Don’t let these fluke wins prove them worthwhile of being mentioned as winners. They have not won anything yet and when they have won something-then maybe we can talk about being wrong!

By drmaryb

April 30, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this

Neon-Deon

Said it best, “Stay True To Your Boo! If You Boo Me Then - Then Boo Me Know!

Don’t be Wishy-Washy, I hate that! Go Najeh drmaryb has got your back like a Bobby Knight Tight Red Sweater. LMBoobiesO!