Hawks

By Clyde

October 11, 2006 04:17 PM | Link to this

Tonight will be interesting. I’m concerned bout Josh and all our power forwards on the roster. All of them will be playing against taller and bigger opponents. Foul trouble will be a problem this year.

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By Gutz

October 11, 2006 04:23 PM | Link to this

Thats great news about Shelden! He better start collecting the rent down there in the paint. The Landlord needs to be unleashed and start bringing some pain! I also love the starting lineup with Marvin and Smoove starting at the forward spots. I think once Speedy gets back and starts over Lue this team will be running all over the place. I can’t wait for the season to start. Lets hope Marvin and Smoove dominate tonight. Thanks for the info Sekou! Keep it coming. Go Hawks!

By Astro Joe

October 11, 2006 04:31 PM | Link to this

Based on some of your earlier blogs, Sekou, I’m hoping this team is truly developing into a cohesive unit. If that is the case, then hopefully the better rotations and attention to defensive concepts will help Smith’s shortcomings as a traditional post defender. Has Woody discussed resting JJ? I read that LeBron will likely miss some pre-season games to allow him extra rest. I’m hoping that Woody limits JJ’s minutes to something like 20 or less during these exhibition games.

By mountain_jim

October 11, 2006 04:46 PM | Link to this

Go Hawks! Finally time for Hawks Basketball!

By vdunkndunk

October 11, 2006 05:38 PM | Link to this

Sekou, thanks for the info. This is probably the most interesting storyline of the preseason to me. I look forward to hearing how Marvin and Josh looked together in the starting lineup, and hopefully Shelden will come in there and do some nice things off the bench.

By Fan01

October 11, 2006 05:43 PM | Link to this

I am so ready I know this is pre season but still atleast we get to hear how the guys are doing.

By Matt

October 11, 2006 05:45 PM | Link to this

Astro Joe, if there is a new ball to be reckoned with I think I want JJ getting plenty of minutes. You could just let him practice, but with all the injuries it sounds like the Hawks practices might be tougher than the games!

And Sekou, I know it could be shocking to see a power forward on this team playing physical defense and drawing defensive fouls while challenging shots (cough cough Harrington), but I for one would welcome it. Have him foul out a few times in the preseason just let people know that they are not going to want to take it inside against these Hawks.

Shelden has played plenty of college ball, and he was taken high in the draft. He shouldn’t be a project, he should be ready to contribute. It’s encouraging to hear that he rises to the level of competition, but this team still plays in the Eastern Conference so I hope that the Raptors are enough to get him excited…

-Matt from Hotlanta Hawks Blog

By rob

October 11, 2006 05:52 PM | Link to this

Is the game televised anywhere?

By josh

October 11, 2006 06:14 PM | Link to this

Is it on T.V. ?

By JMar

October 11, 2006 06:22 PM | Link to this

I hope someone explains to Shelden that it’s an 82 game season, not like in college.

By The Flash

October 11, 2006 06:51 PM | Link to this

Everybody’s still wrongly concerned about one end of the court. There is no defense/offense duality in the game where it is going.

I’m looking for tempo and fluidity, and I’m expecting to see alot of JC and JJ in the backcourt, with everyone handling it alot, and everyone helping alot. The length and quickness of a JC and JJ backcourt helping inside, and requiring higher archs on the outside, and getting out in transition against smaller guards. Fours having trouble keeping up with Smooth, and having more than they want and then some against Shellie.

Hey, is it really just the start of the preseason?

By mykhalc

October 11, 2006 08:01 PM | Link to this

yeah baby!!! GO HAWKS!!!

By Astro Joe

October 11, 2006 08:59 PM | Link to this

Quick update, Hawks up 37-24 after the first quarter, but it sounds like the Grizzlies are playing better D in the second quarter. Lead is staying between 10-13 points half-way through the 2nd quarter.

By Astro Joe

October 11, 2006 09:28 PM | Link to this

Hawks up 60-40 at halftime. Sounds like JJ (22 points in first half) and Marvin are feeding off each other quite well. JJ is hitting 3s and Marvin is being aggressive in his drives to the basket and even setting up JJ for open 3-pointers. The defense sounds like it is fierce, forced something like 12 turnovers in first half.

By GuyFromUruguay

October 11, 2006 09:30 PM | Link to this

Hi again people. Did I read right? Joe Johnson, 22 points in 5 minutes, including 4 of 5 from the 3-point line?

This guy will be an All Star this season, no doubt about it.

By G Money

October 11, 2006 09:33 PM | Link to this

It’s half time. The Hawks have scored 60 vs 40 for the Grizz. Who would have thunk it? I know it is the Gasol-less Grizzlies but it sounds like the real fans could be in for something. Let’s hope this isn’t a mirage.

By ray

October 11, 2006 10:07 PM | Link to this

Wow. Up 20 at the half, huh? How did the finish, though? I knew JJ was going to go off. Just knew it. But whoa on the excitement, it’s the preseason.

By Fan01

October 11, 2006 10:22 PM | Link to this

Man with all this talk about Marvin and Smoove being much improved they have not dissapointed at all they were both amazing tonight, and Joe was also fantastic. the Greek guy has also been good I hope we find a way to keep him.

By Richie Rich

October 11, 2006 10:39 PM | Link to this

Memphis’s starting lineup tonight looked like a summer league squad against our starters tonight….Nice to see the hustle on the defensive end tho!

By Clyde

October 11, 2006 10:57 PM | Link to this

Man the Hawks were playing a Developmental League team tonight.

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By Tyger

October 11, 2006 10:59 PM | Link to this

Great News! Hawks playing with intensity and confidence. Coach Woody’s system and BK’s players arent freshman anymore, hopefully, these upperclassmen are ready to run the yard.

Marvin nor Shelden were overwhelmed. JSmoove, Salim and JJ shot lights out. Glyniadakis is fighting like hell for a spot. Ty Lue said Speedy who? Harrington what???

I like it…

By MW24

October 11, 2006 11:00 PM | Link to this

Shelden with 12 points and 9 reounds in 24 minutes of the bench. hell yeah!!

By Jrock

October 11, 2006 11:29 PM | Link to this

Marvin and Smooth together will be a terror for most of the league to handle. Sheldin with 12 and 9 shows he’s no project he’s ready to play hard nose basketball. How about the Greek Sensation playin well tonight. Solomon Jones better get back soon or he may be in the D-league. I have controlled excitement about this team. It’s only pre-season but did we win a game last year in the preseason. Let’s get behind this team and support our hometown team. GO HAWKS!!!!!

By Remembering Roundfield

October 12, 2006 12:08 AM | Link to this

I know we’re all excited and thinking that our team is gonna kick butt this year, but let’s hold on before we start to hyperventilate (grab those paper bags and b-r-e-a-t-h-e). Remember that it’s just the first pre-season game, remember that Gasol didn’t play, remember what Wright said about how they play offense in Memphis (everything goes thru Gasol). We don’t want to get too high and be bummed at the first bad outing. They’re playing together and they’re playing well. I’m sure they like the feeling. Let’s hope they like it well enough to make sure they play that way every night!

By Lacsho

October 12, 2006 12:45 AM | Link to this

Say what you want, but one thing I noticed about this group is ” they are not a group of pushovers”. This group is very aggressive, and they will not be punked this year. I’m trying to tell you, I smell a change of attitude on the horizon… Good reporting Sekou.. Great game Hawks!!

By G Money

October 12, 2006 05:17 AM | Link to this

Great Game Hawks!! Regardless of whether the Grizz were without Pau, what I heard was team offense, team defense, execution and effort. I think that’s all most are asking of this team. They moved the ball around the perimeter quickly and decisively in the first half especially. There were some defensive mix ups, but most times help was there when needed. Intensity — sky high! Hey, if they play this well and only win 35 games, then it’s going to be because the other teams played phenomenal basketball — that’s still great to watch.

On another note…I’m not hearing any fire Woody and Billy tonight. Shelden had to be the surprise of the night for me. He was doing all the things that (not to over-exaggerate) a Ben Wallace would do sans block shots. SS is certainly on point with his updates. JJ is just on a whole different level, 22 pts by half time and not hogging the ball like AI. If just a couple of the other guys get to that level, I think Hawks fans will be talking playoffs. I think the Greek guy could be a keeper and sleeper.

On the other hand, I think we have work to do with SS and Royal. Obviously they aren’t JJ, but there is a huge gap between them. It’s not like Lue for Speedy. Chills will have to step way up in my opinion. If SS plays 2, he’s gotta defend even better. Lo is a much needed enforcer, but he’s got to step up as well with the basketball skills. A stiffer test comes Saturday. Was this all a mirage?

By Samuel

October 12, 2006 06:17 AM | Link to this

Very Impressive,

If the Hawks contunue to play with that type of defensive intensity, I believe they will exceed my expectations. NBA teams are not used to having to work that hard on offense unless it’s playoff time. Eventhough Gasol was absent, that was pretty much Memphis’ club. I don’t think he would have made that much difference, as our game was based on defensive pressure.

I was dissappointed by not seeing Chalmers’ name. From what I saw at the practice and the showing last night. Ivey and Salim will hurt us big time this year.

What about “MY BOY” Big G. 4-4 from the field, 3 boards, 3-4 from the line. 10 points in 14 minutes. You can only hope to Containe him.

Good work guys.

By Jason

October 12, 2006 07:34 AM | Link to this

Does anyone know where the box score for the game is?

I’d love to check out the game stats.

By G Money

October 12, 2006 08:24 AM | Link to this

Here’s the link http://www.nba.com/games/20061011/ATLMEM/boxscore.html although it may not work in this format

By Astro Joe

October 12, 2006 09:13 AM | Link to this

Sure, it was just an exhibition game and sure the Grizzlies were playing back-to-back and clearly they are not the same team without Gasol, but would you prefer the alternative? Heck, that’s what we’ve been getting for the past 2 years, the alternative to blowing out a bad team. Looks like a very strong performance during the first 3 quarters. I was surprised that Marvin didn’t post better stats, because the Hawks radio announcers were making it sound like he was doing his best Carmelo imitation out there. You HAVE to be encouraged by the team concept displayed during last night’s game.

By THL

October 12, 2006 09:33 AM | Link to this

From what I was able to read on the game, I like the attitude and the aggressiveness the team showed. It’s just the first pre-season game though. Carry that into the season and we will have some things to talk about.

By G Money

October 12, 2006 09:34 AM | Link to this

Given that Big G and Bozeman got some work in last evening, how do you suspect Woody will work in some of the other guys at camp such as Chalmers? Or do you think he’s just going to play those he thinks might seriously make the team? Any suspicions?

By G-Money

October 12, 2006 10:34 AM | Link to this

Samuel, here’s what happened to Chalmers:

“Hawks guard Lionel Chalmers did not make the trip after injuring his right ankle. He will not play in Friday’s game against Houston in Little Rock, Ark.” Yahoo Sports

By honest_abe

October 12, 2006 10:49 AM | Link to this

i could care less if they played the decatur jv team…it’s preseason.. what’s really important is mindset of these young kids… are they hungrier than they were last year? so far from what i’ve read it, it seems so… i was impressed to read about their high intensity level and defensive pressure.. i think what all the nay sayers forget to add into the equation is that we all know it’s pre-season and it would be real easy for the hawks to take these games lightly and not put forth much effort… but big kudos to the coaching staff (woody) to have these guys in the right frame of mind. i’m not saying this team will make the playoff’s but i’m positive this hawks team won’t have as many 4th quarter collapses or listless first halves this year.

By doc

October 12, 2006 10:52 AM | Link to this

just an exhibition but a good start. last year they wouldnt have shown up or would have barely won against a team without its star even in an exhibiton. shows some maturity and killer instinct, both necesary for the long haul.

got to wonder if some of the stuff from lo was some carry over frustration at how he was used in memphis, shall we say pay back time?

By Lacsho

October 12, 2006 11:07 AM | Link to this

Abe you have to be King of the one liners..i could care less if they played the decatur jv team I wonder if some of you guys really know how funny you actually are. Clyde keeps me in stitches.

By Dee

October 12, 2006 12:57 PM | Link to this

Wow..seems like the Hawks cant win from losing with some of the comments on here..If the Hawks would have started this “1st pre-season” game with the score being opposite, we would read a ole like of “the HAwks are still as sorry as they were years ago” or ” I knew Sheldon wouldnt/couldnt perform up to our expectations” or ” I give up on the Hawks now & forever”. Well, probably not all that kind..those are the rated G version of some of the comments I’m sure the Hawks would have gotten if the situation was reversed. But since the HAwks started this pre-season game off right, we STILL get somewhat negative comments. I see a great change in the Hawks already & I cant wait to see the the rest of the season grow for our Atlanta HAWKS!!! I’m behind ya all the way guys..I’m not a fare-weather fan!!

By michael m.

October 12, 2006 01:01 PM | Link to this

as i mentioned repeatedly in the offseason, team chemistry and playing together at both ends of the floor would be the key. especially hustle and effort on d since it can help you get out in transition on offense, pushing the basketball upcourt. our squad is stepping up to the challenge. listening to the game last night on radio, it was clearly evident. and with so many eastern teams with similar levels of talent, the hawks have a real chance to make moves this year. the pau-less opponent last night was less important than what it was that we did ourselves. don’t be haters just because of the past half dozen years. yes, they still have to prove it over time but let’s move forward. last night was a positive step that bodes well for the future if we keep this up.

not only did we add two defensive minded bigs and a point guard who can push the tempo and distribute effectively, but we also are one of the youngest nba teams who will show improvement just by the fact we have so many seriously talented guys who are improving from year to year themselves. marvin, josh smith, even childress… these guys are going to be different and better players this year. and by playing the game the right way - together and as a team - they will hopefully start to believe even more once the hard work shows results in the win column. they need to stay mentally tough. sounds like we are all extremely happy that what our good man sekou has been reporting from camp will indeed have legs once the games count for real. it’s only a start and let’s not get ahead of ourselves, but be cautiously optimistic. i know i am.

By michael m.

October 12, 2006 01:03 PM | Link to this

as i mentioned repeatedly in the offseason, team chemistry and playing together at both ends of the floor would be the key. especially hustle and effort on d since it can help you get out in transition on offense, pushing the basketball upcourt. our squad is stepping up to the challenge. listening to the game last night on radio, it was clearly evident. and with so many eastern teams with similar levels of talent, the hawks have a real chance to make moves this year. the pau-less opponent last night was less important than what it was that we did ourselves. don’t be haters just because of the past half dozen years. yes, they still have to prove it over time but let’s move forward. last night was a positive step that bodes well for the future if we keep this up.

not only did we add two defensive minded bigs and a point guard who can push the tempo and distribute effectively, but we also are one of the youngest nba teams who will show improvement just by the fact we have so many seriously talented guys who are improving from year to year themselves. marvin, josh smith, even childress… these guys are going to be different and better players this year. and by playing the game the right way - together and as a team - they will hopefully start to believe even more once the hard work shows results in the win column. they need to stay mentally tough. sounds like we are all extremely happy that what our good man sekou has been reporting from camp will indeed have legs once the games count for real. it’s only a start and let’s not get ahead of ourselves, but be cautiously optimistic. i know i am.

By michael m.

October 12, 2006 01:03 PM | Link to this

as i mentioned repeatedly in the offseason, team chemistry and playing together at both ends of the floor would be the key. especially hustle and effort on d since it can help you get out in transition on offense, pushing the basketball upcourt. our squad is stepping up to the challenge. listening to the game last night on radio, it was clearly evident. and with so many eastern teams with similar levels of talent, the hawks have a real chance to make moves this year. the pau-less opponent last night was less important than what it was that we did ourselves. don’t be haters just because of the past half dozen years. yes, they still have to prove it over time but let’s move forward. last night was a positive step that bodes well for the future if we keep this up.

not only did we add two defensive minded bigs and a point guard who can push the tempo and distribute effectively, but we also are one of the youngest nba teams who will show improvement just by the fact we have so many seriously talented guys who are improving from year to year themselves. marvin, josh smith, even childress… these guys are going to be different and better players this year. and by playing the game the right way - together and as a team - they will hopefully start to believe even more once the hard work shows results in the win column. they need to stay mentally tough. sounds like we are all extremely happy that what our good man sekou has been reporting from camp will indeed have legs once the games count for real. it’s only a start and let’s not get ahead of ourselves, but be cautiously optimistic. i know i am.

By Kappy

October 12, 2006 01:08 PM | Link to this

First of all, those who were saying that Memphis is a developmental team are wrong. Sure, they were missing Pau, but the rest of their team was there and played. And lets remember that this is a team that was 16 games above .500 last year and made the playoffs in the West! I know its preseason, and i know they played the night before, but these are encouraging results. I refuse to listen to the naysayers who doubt our team’s improvement and desire. Go post on a Golden State blog or something. Most of us around here want to see improvement and we want to see a winner.

From what I listened to on the live stream from 790, the players played their hearts out. Good for them. Even though its just a preseason game, they need to show that improving is important to them.

And Shelden is going to be the real deal folks. I like the decision to draft him then(even though i thought BK could get him lower) and I’ll love watching the rewards in the future.

It seems like Zaza’s role will diminish this year. It couldnt possibly get any bigger than the output he gave last year. Just hope this doesnt negatively influence team chemistry and attitude.

And guys, sorry, but Salim is not a point. He should be regarded as a backup shooter and nothing else, but he cant guard 2’s so on the defensive end, he’ll have to guard the point while JJ or Chil guard the 2.

Still very encouraged by last night’s game. The Hawks are going to surprise some folks outside of Atlanta this year. Of course, we all have the insider info on whats going on here. You da man, Sekou.

By robdawg06

October 12, 2006 01:09 PM | Link to this

You can get a better guage to how good they really are against the Pistons,Heat,Spurs,Suns,and Mavs. The Grizzlies have no bite…Gasol would have scored 25 and prevented 15 from scoring with his defense so adjust the final score by 40 points at least…

By Kappy

October 12, 2006 01:15 PM | Link to this

robdawg06 No offense, That might have been the stupidest comment I’ve ever heard on these blogs. 40 point swing? You cant logically do that dude. What happened on those possessions where Memphis scored, but normally Pau would have gotten the ball? I cant believe I’m trying to explain it. Just stupid.

By michael m.

October 12, 2006 01:20 PM | Link to this

sorry about the repeats. when it didnt go through, i clicked post again… and again. well, you get the point. my apologies.

By michael m.

October 12, 2006 01:25 PM | Link to this

robdawg you’re an idiot… a jokester… an idiot… a jokester.

i could better gauge your posting skills in the pistons or heat blogs so if you wouldnt mind, go there now. we will come check on your progress in a little while. and you should look into finding a way to adjust your iq score by 40 points at least, maybe even 50.

By Jason

October 12, 2006 01:30 PM | Link to this

Thanks Money. Almost everyone looked very solid.

By Jrock

October 12, 2006 02:02 PM | Link to this

Haters,Haters, Haters!!!! Some people are happy when the Hawks lose and find reasons why the other team lost the game when they win. Anyone like this should not consider there self a fan. That goes for you rawdawg06. Next time scrape up and u won’t have that burning sensation.Lol.

Slow progress is still progress. How many open jumpers did Josh Smith hit his rookie season? Before last year when did we have a star like Joe Johnson? Since when have we had a tough player in the paint like Sheldon Williams? A potetial superstar in Marvin Williams?

When u’re coming from the bottom of the barrel u have to crawl before you walk. If these youngsters can play hard and fight every night they’ll win over the great city of Atlanta.

By Jim Garren

October 12, 2006 02:56 PM | Link to this

I didn’t get to see the game last night, but after reading the article and reading about our players taking up for each other and almost fighting, I think this is something good. The team has lacked chemistry since they have been bad, and taking up for one another is a way of showing that they may have that now.

By ray

October 12, 2006 11:02 PM | Link to this

That was encouraging. I wish I could have seen the game.

Oh, and somebody please put the robdawg out, he’s gotta go…