Hawks

By Astro Joe

November 7, 2006 04:27 PM | Link to this

I hate when I see the word “swagger” associated with the Hawks. This team is a few SEASONS away from being able to use that word. Should they feel competent? Sure. But swagger is a word I associate with the Colts’ offense or the Yankees batting order or David Stern’s guidance over the league. Swagger is for legendary performers who have done it time and time again. Not for a team with a cute little 3 game run. They need to stay humble, hungry and highly motivated. Let’s let the Heat deal with the consequences of having “swagger” too early (or the Falcons getting waxed by a 1-6 Lions team).

And yes, we definitely need more offense on the road and we need for Smith to play some better on-ball defense, as I imagine he will get the bulk of the match-up against LeBron. If it is a close game at the end, it will be interesting to see if Smith or Childress gets the LeBron assignment.

By Lacsho

November 7, 2006 04:29 PM | Link to this

Sekou I agree people tend to forget about that exciting preseason game we won in Columbus. Side Note I can’t wait to get Michigan in Columbus. That’s between you and me (Sekou). I have been rather quiet during the Ohio State bashing you have provided through out the pass couple of weeks. Any who, I agree we need someone other than ZaZa to provide a scoring punch. Lets Go Hawks Show Them What You Got

Peace and I’m gone!!!!

By Marcus

November 7, 2006 04:40 PM | Link to this

It would really be nice if the local boys could go on the road and post a victory against King James and crew.

It may only be 3 games into the season. But its just nice to see the Hawks on top of the division. They could be at the bottom.

By Swatguy

November 7, 2006 05:11 PM | Link to this

Yes we did have good defense in Philly but we seemed intimidated on offense. I don’t really mind a swagger at this point. But a swagger is when you have laid it out on the court, 110%. Lo, Zaza, Josh and Shelden need to be ready lending physicality. Woody among his duties will be the relationship with the officials. Backing up the players. If Philly intimidates the Cleveland team will certainly bring it at home after a loss.

Put a cup in the jock boys, it’s gonna be rough.

By TonyG

November 7, 2006 05:58 PM | Link to this

lebron can always beat you. but u r exactly right. this will be a game that the cavs will try to play in the paint. we need to keep the ball moving, and keep them outside. let lebron and hughes shoot all day, they wont beat us from outside. its up to shelden and our other bigs to have a great game on the defensive end.

By Gutz

November 7, 2006 06:07 PM | Link to this

We gotta bring it tonight thats for sure!! This Cavs team is pretty nasty and they just beat San Antonio on the road. I hope Shelden has a break out game against Gooden down low. If Zaza can drive and keep getting to the line maybe we can get their big men in foul trouble just like we did with Orlando. We have to have Speedy step up tonight as well and drive to the basket and dish the rock when needed on the drive. He should be able to blow by anyone they put on him. We need Chill and Smoove to come up big as well! Come on Hawks! This would be HUGE win and confidence booster for this team.

By G-Money

November 7, 2006 06:08 PM | Link to this

I think the Hawks have a chance albeit a slim one. Inside presence is going to be critical as well as movement and having an uptempo game. Ilgauskus is slow and he lumbers. Varejao is much quicker but also shorter. Help defense is going to be a must. Guards are going to have to get in the passing lanes and LeBron is going to be a menace. That being said, Shelden will have to score at least 8 points tonight to help out. It’s time for Josh to put on the cape and start flying to the basket with authority. Perhaps Frieje can get it going outside as well as Bozeman in relief. I think it’s going to be very competitive. Frankly they will need all the swagger they can muster. If you think AI is intimidating King James may not be twice as effective, but he is certainly twice as imposing.

By doc

November 7, 2006 06:20 PM | Link to this

no, not tonight. cleveland is on a mission this year, right atf. labron is going to do his thing. the critical item missing last year was a healthy hughes who tried to play through a broken hand suffered before the season started and ended up with TWO surgical proceedures on his hand. he is now healthy shooting the three and doing the job on defense.

this is the game where jj will be tested by a first rate defender that can match up with him maybe as well as anyone in the league.

not tonight guys, dont go there, there will be other nights to fret but this isnt one. this will be a game to learn on and teeth a bit on the ring.

By Reasonable Dawg

November 7, 2006 06:33 PM | Link to this

Win or lose I will be watching effort and shot selection. I think that bad shot selection did us in on the road in philly. Also, SS what kind of ppg projection do you anticipate for Marvin this season? If he can give us 17 a night, and Joe can stay around 25, then I see us in playoff contention this season. Deuces!!!

By Richie Rich

November 7, 2006 08:13 PM | Link to this

Man that is a b****** call, that shot should have counted, nice play anyway jj…good half of b-ball by the hawks, i like the hustle.

By GuyFromUruguay

November 7, 2006 09:14 PM | Link to this

Really good game so far, too bad they slipped a little on the 3rd.

I don’t understand why Freije was guarding LeBron for a few possesions though.

Currently 6 points down and looks like it will be a game up to the buzzer.

By GuyFromUruguay

November 7, 2006 09:25 PM | Link to this

3 minutes to go, down 3. Why the hell does Josh Smith throw 3s?

I would have taken him out were I Woodson! Childress, on the other hand, is doing all the little things and had a nice fast break too.

Joe was stifled all day (by Eric Snow & LeBron), and it’s tough to penetrate the Cavaliers defense.

By HB Ando

November 7, 2006 09:25 PM | Link to this

4 minutes left, no shot blockers on the floor for Cleveland, Smith at the top of the key, jacks an errant 3, intead of pump faking and attacking the basket. If there is one play that underscores my concerns about Josh Smith, that would be it. Remember Amare, two years ago? Attack, attack, and attack again. You’re 6’9, with long arms, a 40 inch vertical, and an NBA dunk championship under your young belt. Why are you lofting uncontested 3’s? If it’s because you’re open, that should be all the evidence you need to know that the other team is praying you’ll take that open J, instead of attacking the basket. What is wrong with this kid?

Attack, attack, and attack again! Every time you settle, the other team exhales at the favor you just bestowed upon their defense. It’s sad, and a bit scary, to think about how explosive this team would be, especially after Marvin returns, if Josh Smith would just channel Shaun Marion, instead of Peja……….

Soft is the only word I can think of when I watch this kid, with superstar potential, play like this. Shaun Marion has absolutely nothing on Josh Smith, as an athlete. So it’s all heart and head. If both are empty, I guess we just trade him to some other team that thinks they can change his ways. But I won’t stop imagining him playing like Marion, alongside Marvin, playing like a young Mashburn, with a superstar like JJ, and wonder what might be……..

By HB Ando

November 7, 2006 09:30 PM | Link to this

OK, just so that you guys don’t think I only criticize the locals, what the heck was LeBron thinking, down 2, with time on the shot clock, jacking a 28-foot fade away? Hawks are scrapping, I’ll give them that.

Hughes for 3! What a finish!

Now we get to see what the Hawks can do in a half-court set, with the game on the line. This is about coaching and execution. 35.3 left.

By HB Ando

November 7, 2006 09:34 PM | Link to this

Well, some things never change. Coming out of a time out, no execution. The Cavs almost handed us this one, and I’ll give credit for the effort. But this still looks like a team that lacks coaching and clearly defined roles. I’ll post this with 14.3, so that if they some how pull this out, I won’t look like I waited to after the buzzer to make my points.

By GuyFromUruguay

November 7, 2006 09:44 PM | Link to this

WOW… Tyronne Lue is THE MAN… sent the Hawks to overtime beating the buzzer and erased those 2 free throws he missed (to be fair, everyone missed free throws down the line).

BTW Ando, I agree with you about Smith… too much talent going to waste though, I hope a coach can instill some sense into him.

By Kappy

November 7, 2006 09:59 PM | Link to this

Lets see how many people from tonight through the rest of the season, jump on the hawks bandwagon

By Buzz Aldrin

November 7, 2006 09:59 PM | Link to this

HAWKS WIN!!! HAWKS WIN!!! Can we start the playoffs now please? Just cancel the rest of the season.

By Wedgie Evans

November 7, 2006 09:59 PM | Link to this

How ‘bout them Hawks! I shoulda written in Joe Johnson today when I voted for state governor.

By Samuel

November 7, 2006 09:59 PM | Link to this

Great win Hawks,

You guys are really outworking everyone in the NBA. Keep *bustin yo butts and playin that serious D.

By melvin

November 7, 2006 10:00 PM | Link to this

Great Win by the HAWKS tonite…They hung in there, kept fighting and played thru some bad calls that went in the Cavs favor (or should i say Leboron favor). T.Lue and JJ was played big down the stretch.

By HB Ando

November 7, 2006 10:01 PM | Link to this

For those of you who were watching the game on TV, I believe it was me that Ty Lue was talking trash to, right after he hit the lay up to go to OT.

The Cavs gave this game away. But last years’ Hawks wouldn’t have taken the opening and pulled it out. Kudos to the Hawks for winning on the road. This kind of win can only breed confidence, as well as serving notice to teams around the league that the Hawks can’t be taken lightly when they come into your town.

3-1. Who’d have thunk it? Not me.

By roan st

November 7, 2006 10:01 PM | Link to this

Anybody out there still want to complain about the joe johnson trade? The guy is our best player since dominique wilkins hands down. Great road win for this young team tonight. Ando, I think you need to revise your comments above to reflect the end result.

By jhan

November 7, 2006 10:02 PM | Link to this

Fantastic game! Love the defense & hustle.

By Steve T

November 7, 2006 10:03 PM | Link to this

The Hawks won. It looks like Billy may know what he was doing after all. He liken JJ to Larry Bird for the Hawks. The man knows B-ball. The Hawks appear to be serious. Now the Hawks need a strong lost post scorer for the half-court game.

By Wedgie Evans

November 7, 2006 10:06 PM | Link to this

I don’t know if it’s the reason why Josh Smith doesn’t attack more, but since he came into the league he has had problems with ball-handling… and it may seem weird to say this about a former dunk champion, but he doesn’t always finish very well in traffic, he doesn’t absorb contact very well around the rim. I have a feeling he knows this and doesn’t yet have the confidence to attack more consistently as a result. It’s one thing to challenge big guys like Zaza in practice who can’t block shots, but when you are going up against the Zydrunas Ilgauskases of the league you gotta be able to absorb some contact and finish around the rim. I don’t know if J-Smoove can do that consistently yet. He really needs to work on this, because I agree that he’s not going to come close to his potential until he starts attacking more.

By LAJ

November 7, 2006 10:10 PM | Link to this

what happened to Speedy? did’t get to see what happened.

By Ken Strickland

November 7, 2006 10:12 PM | Link to this

I would love to be able to say I told you so, but there were others that saw what I saw. There were those of us that focused on what the team had, rather than what they shoulda coulda had. This team will contend for a playoff spot. Just wait until we put all of the pieces together.

DEF, DEF, DEF. Good coaching and good, talented players to make it work. Look at what we have accomplished with 6 new players, 1 starter on IR and another trying to get his game back after an injury. GOOOO FALCONS!!!!!!

By Richie Rich

November 7, 2006 10:17 PM | Link to this

Jhan, you stole the words right out of my mouth!….can’t wait to see how marvin fits in when he gets back…

By J-MAN

November 7, 2006 10:17 PM | Link to this

What you saw tonight was a team with heart and resilence a team that didn’t give up at all. Even trailing by 10 with 7:30 left in the game they just kept chipping away and finally they got to overtime and from there they had the Cavs right where we wanted them. Incredible job by T Lue and Joe Johnson. Right now Mike Woodson is looking like coach of the year. If they play every game like this the rest of the season we will have home field advantage at least through 1 series in the playoffs. Joe Johnson for MVP and Governor!

By newkid

November 7, 2006 10:19 PM | Link to this

A couple weeks back Sekou asked what PLAYER needed to have an extraordinary year if the Hawks were to exceed expectations. Most of you chimed in with the name of a player; a few of us suggested that perhaps TEAM related exceedances would be where we’d need extraordinary performances if we were to exceed expectations. Well, tonight you had one of those extraordinary TEAM performances, particularly on the defensive end, and the result is an unexpected W. Yes, we caught the Cavaliers with their trousers down. We’ll catch several others as well if we continue with put the focus on TEAM. A huge lesson from our experiences in international basketball competition over the past decade is that while you’ve gotta have talent, talent alone ain’t gonna get it done. It’s about the TEAM.

Great win for our side!

By ray

November 7, 2006 10:20 PM | Link to this

Yeahhhh, babyyyy! I love it. Even though we made a pile of mistakes, this season’s team has some real scrap to them and it paid off. Now some people will say that Cleveland kept handing it to us, and they did. Lebron kept missing free throws for one thing. But people, he’s been doing this…remember the Olympics a short while ago? We managed to take advantage of it in the end. We had about twice as many turnovers as they did, yet the game was never out of control for us. Better defense was part of the key. How about LUE! Man, he is playing well enough to blow poor Salim into obscurity. He’s crafty, clever, whatever you wanna call it, but he’s not hurting the team when he’s on the floor. That would be why Salim isn’t playing. I can see where Freije and Bozeman were helping too. JJ is just the man. No two ways about it. All of this without Speedy and Marvin.

I have not had this much fun watching the Hawks in who knows how long. That game had some exciting moments that had me exploding off of the couch and scaring my pit bull. Eventually he got tired of it and walked out of the room. But then the coffee table got up and left too. Disturbing…

Nobody bagged Josh Smith like Ando. It seemed for a while there that he actually got it and started driving to the basket. Which idiot told him he was a perimeter threat? That was one heck of a bad time to try that 3. I advocated Josh’s desire to develop a perimeter game, but dang, even a very good perimeter guy knows to drive when the shot isn’t falling. Or even when it is. Ask JJ…Ando might have just pegged the guy who gets traded if/when it comes to that. I’m not giving up on the guy, but how many times has Ando been wrong on something like that? Makes me nervous. I really like Smoove. He’s gotta get that lost look out of his eyes.

Other than that, what a game!

By Ken Strickland

November 7, 2006 10:21 PM | Link to this

Can you tell how excited I am? I meant to say GOOOOOO HAWKS!!!!!!!!

By mykhalc

November 7, 2006 10:27 PM | Link to this

YOUNG GUNS!!! could that be 3 wins in a row???LOL they are gonna make me invest in NBALP so i can catch some games!! ROAD WIN…YEAH BABY!!

By Reasonable Dawg

November 7, 2006 10:30 PM | Link to this

Well it looks like most people noticed the shot selection that I spoke of. Well so what, 3-1, undefeated at home, and a road win over a team who went deep into the playoffs last year and had won 12 straight @ home. I’m lovin what I’m seeing right now. When Marvin comes back the Hawks will have a deep, interchangeable rotation. I think that is our identity. 1st and 2nd units both very atheletic hardworkers. A little more bulk next season and we could be a force.

By ray

November 7, 2006 10:32 PM | Link to this

Newkid, right on brother. Well said.

Mykhalc, Ken, don’t it feel so good? :)

Ando, was it really you? If it was, Ty looked like he would have decked you one. What on earth did you say to him? I saw the look on his face, dude. Don’t tell me you’re pulling one of those Spike Lee/Reggie Miller scenarios. Heckling from the sidelines, LOL! Watch out for guys like Mutombo, they’ll come after your butt, LOL!

Astro Joe, you brought some perspective, as usual. We don’t need swagger at all. It will only get us into trouble at this point in time. Confidence doesn’t necessarily mean swagger, and we DO need confidence. Your comment about humility and tireless work ethic was on target too. And I realize that this has to be consistent, because the games we are playing now won’t be like this later in the season. Teams will revamp their approaches, coaches modifying their schemes, and the intensity level will rise dramatically. While I wish to throw no damper on our party, tough times are ahead at some point. And the coaches, as well as veterans like Lue, will have to help keep the ship upright, win or lose. In the meantime, let’s keep on surprising teams while we can. Cleveland knew it was in a fight, but as I suspected, they didn’t know how mean a fight the challenger was going to bring.

By b man

November 7, 2006 10:33 PM | Link to this

Great win Hawks!!!!

This is a game the Hawks would have probably lost last year…a tough game on the road against a quality team.

I know the season is early but I like this team so far…they don’t back down and show fight. They’re doing the little things (taking charges & defensive rotation) that win games.

Let’s continue this style of play and attitude…you never know what can happen!

Go Hawks!!!!!

By mykhalc

November 7, 2006 10:36 PM | Link to this

anything up with SPEEDY tonite??? noticed his minutes were down??? did LUE keep him on the bench?? help a brotha out!!LOL

By mykhalc

November 7, 2006 10:38 PM | Link to this

RAY, you got that right!!! the BABY BIRDS are learnin’ how to fly!!LOL

By Grant aka Midnight

November 7, 2006 10:39 PM | Link to this

HAWKS Win OH HAWKS Win!!!

By G Money

November 7, 2006 10:41 PM | Link to this

I was wondering about that GOOOO Falcons thing. Glad you explained. I think we all have to give it up for the Hawks. They showed tremendous heart and were relentless. In OT they just wanted it more than the Cavs. It’s time to stop saying that the other team gave them the game. The Hawks won because they out-worked the other team. This was not a gift. It may not be a sample of what’s to come, but I have to believe that there is more ahead. The TEAM just works. I am thoroughly impressed with Bozeman and Frieje off the bench. ZaZa was a real man inside versus the slower Ilgauskus. While Josh did not have the best of games, you have to admit that he is improving. No one changes 180 degrees over night. He’s 20 and learning the game. JJ is just too much for words. A team that knows how to play defense will win over a team that only knows offense every time. It would be great to see Speedy emerge from all this as a better player than Lue, but Lue played with such heart tonight, Speedy is going to have to really come with it if he wants to be the starter the Hawks paid for. That said, it can only get better when Marvin gets back.

All you haters have to give it up. Ando baby…I’m calling you, Clyde and all the other Fire Billy and Woody cheerleaders out. If you think you have potential as a GM, keep your day job.

By coolchris

November 7, 2006 10:46 PM | Link to this

To me Sheldon is getting better every game out. As he gets adjusted to the NBA game and gains more confidence he will be a real factor in about 10 games. Maybe over analizing of wishful thinking. Great character win. GREAT TEAM WIN

By mykhalc

November 7, 2006 10:53 PM | Link to this

and a side note to the winning, i believe, is the added confidence that MARVIN will return with. it can’t help but rub off on him even tho he’s out. so i can’t wait to see what he brings when he returns!!!

By G Money

November 7, 2006 10:54 PM | Link to this

Myhalc, TLue played his a** off with the exception of two fairly important free throws down the stretch. But just like a man who is committed, he made up for it all to tie the game sending it into overtime as well as pounding nails in the coffin during OT. Speedy was just not as effective. I think it’s going to take awhile before Speedy gets it. Hopefully by Dec he’ll be on track. That would give him the month he lost in camp of constant teaching, drills, and development of on court rapport. Dude, you missed a goody.

By Astro Joe

November 7, 2006 11:04 PM | Link to this

Cautious optimism, my friends. Cautious optimism. The Hawks won’t be able to “sneak up” on too many more teams with performances like this one. We are still the league’s youngest team and we still have some offensive concerns. So before we nominate JJ or Woodson for Man of the Year, let’s maintain some cautious optimism. I’ll even throw an olive branch to young Mr. Smith who played a better game and got to the free throw line. Cautious optimism all the way around. But let’s remember, we won’t be going 81-1, so let’s ride the waves through the road victories against the Cavs and the almost certain disappointments that are ahead. Cautious optimism.

Clyde, your stock price just hit a 52-week low.

By honest_abe

November 7, 2006 11:04 PM | Link to this

YEAH!!!! damn it’s great to see all 10 of us happy for once!! i can’t believe i had to miss the game and my roomies didn’t even dvr it…. BAH! all i can say is jj is worth every damn penny! i know most of us have been saying this for quite some time now. i know, i know maybe MAYBE we could have gotten him without having to give up those draft picks.. BUT, i’m glad BK didn’t take that chance…

great win… i realize it’s early, BUT I DONT’ GIVE A DAMN! GOOOOOOO HAWKS..

where ya at clllllllllllllllyde??

By mykhalc

November 7, 2006 11:09 PM | Link to this

G-Money, thanks for the post. yeah, it’s only 4 games into the season and i’ve already missed out on some good YOUNG GUN telecasts since i live in SF. NBALP here i come!!

you know i feel good for LUE!! he bought into WOODSON and BK’s philosophy and wanted to be a part of things with the HAWKS. he deserves to be part of the turnaround!! BOZEMAN and FREIJE seem to be doin’ their parts off the bence too!!! man, i’m happy for the cats!! keep it goin’!!! stay on ‘em JJ!!!LOL

By Clyde

November 7, 2006 11:37 PM | Link to this

Here I am right here. Good win tonight. To celebrate I will do something real special after I address some issues.

1st Tyron Lue is playing good basketball. I noticed he isn’t walking the ball up the court as much. Second JJ is on a mission. He is taking the ball to the hole and not relying on his jumper. Third Woody is letting this young team play more loose. Thank ya.

I am concerned wit two things. Where will Marvin fit in and do we need to think about moving Salim? We have a good rotation without Marvin and we are winning. Where will his minutes come from? Also with Lue playing so well so do we need Salim? I don’t think so. Let’s get rid of the cry baby.

Now here it goes. To congradulate the Hawks on this win I will not add my signature one liner to the end of this post. They made me proud when they made Lebron James walk off the court with 7 seconds left. Good job tonight. Lets see if we can keep it up when the veteran ball clubs really start kicking things in gear.

By A Thinking Fan

November 7, 2006 11:45 PM | Link to this

Clyde U Da MAN!

By Jim

November 8, 2006 12:53 AM | Link to this

A month ago I speculated a 10 game improvement based on the Hawks offseason. Basically that Speedy, Sheldon, and Wright were clearly an upgrade from Harrington, John Edwards, and Dante Smith. Also that the 2006 versions of Smoove, Marvin, and Childress would be improved over last year. All that may be true but I missed the biggest part. Zaza 2006 is THE MAN. He was a surprise last year but HOLY CRAP hes playing at All Star level so far. Its so easy to forget he’s only 21. I know its early but he’s clearly a top 10 center and arguably top 5 five so far this year. Kudos to Sekou for mentioning earlier this month that Zaza would be the player that most needed to outperform for the Hawks to be anything special. … Man it feels good to be winning …

By Lacsho

November 8, 2006 12:57 AM | Link to this

All I can Say IS I Thought I Told Yall We Won’t Stop. This is what we do this year.

Ray please make some room for the bandwagon

To all my true believers This Bud is for you (I mean Corona)

Ken we are here dawg. Now this is the time we earn some respect.

All those nights of watching the Hawks loose those close games. (3yrs) I knew this day was coming, and wait until we get Marvin back, and Speedy gets healthy. I smell playoffs. All you haters get a pass if you confess now. Speak now or forever hold your peace. I don’t want to see no more hate on this blog. We will loose some games this year, but the fair weather fans has to go. For now on you will get embarrass on this blog.

Doc I can’t believe you went against the homestead!!!! Damn

Peace and I’m gone alright alright alright!!!

By Lacsho

November 8, 2006 01:42 AM | Link to this

Doc I meant Home team!!!!

By bootsybug

November 8, 2006 01:45 AM | Link to this

the best parts of the hawks game for me:

a. obviously the win! a real team effort, and that includes the coaching staff. everyone had great effort and overcame really bad officiating and some brain lapses here and there.

b. king james walking off the court on his team with 8 seconds left to play. i lost a whole bunch of respect for the guy. that’s randy moss type stuff.

c. being in LAST PLACE in Sekou’s Bloggers fantasy league. nowhere to go but up from here (i hope)!

By G Money

November 8, 2006 06:35 AM | Link to this

Astro, I agree that the season is long and these guys may burn out before All Star break. That is a distinct possibility. On the other hand, if Speedy comes around and understands how to make this team go, then the idea of platoons gets even stronger. Secondly, and even though it is early, JChill can get his without starting. Off the bench he was nearly reaching double-double stats. In comes MW…He assumes his small forward role and adds so much more. What has been a seeming weakness is the lack of another real scoring threat like JJ. The team is picking up the scoring slack and I like the balance all the way around. That said, I think that it would be great to have three “go to” options: JJ, ZaZa and MW that opponents have to defend. JSmith is coming around at the PF position. By AS Break he’ll have come a long way. His 14 last night were significant. The players are also going to push him to that next level. If MW can become an inside-outside threat, it just frees up JJ so that he doesn’t have to work so hard for his shot. MW also gives us board help (ZaZa’s lone deficiency to this point) to support JSmith and Zaza. The question becomes one of whether SW can become offensive minded enough to take more of JS’s minutes. He scored 8 tonight and didn’t look bad delivering quality minutes in the paint.

Given this you have TLue, JChill, SW, Zen and Bozeman as the second team with Frieje filling in as a sharpshooter/hustler. This unit should either be able to hold it down or add a spark. There have been no great teams without great benches. The Hawks are not yet a great team but what they are showing says that they could very well be on their way.

As for Salim…Obviously, I’d keep him before Ivey and Batista. I’d also figure out ways that he can continue to grow while hopefully getting some PT in games that the Hawks might know the outcome early (either win or lose). At this point, he’s still worth the investment. If he can get with the defensive mindset and learn how to defend, I think he can help the Hawks immensely. As I said they lack fire power, but I wouldn’t give up the defensive signature for just a shooter.

By the way mykhalc, official reports are that it was Speedy’s knees. In the 14 minutes he played I’d also take a look at the stat sheet.

By doc

November 8, 2006 08:38 AM | Link to this

well hush my keyboard. they threw down that teething ring for another night, good win for the young hawks.

dont doubt it, marvin will only make this team better. as the season progresses a team needs depth.

seems like sheldon held his own last night with lo only getting 14 minutes with sheldon getting his fouls 8 points on 4 of 5 and a few rebounds. still feel when zaza or josh are getting theirs it will be because sheldon or lo has position on his man with a solid box out. that is a term we havent heard on this blog in a while if ever.

i too measue this win a bit with some pragmatism. roll tide clyde will have his day in the sun. that said it was christmas before we had won the third game last year and already this is a team that might be trying to shirk the designation long held and be a team of destiny. it will be hard to achieve if people keep having injuries, speedy out hurts as does marvin, hope there arent too many more.

just win baby!

now on to my second team, the suns. gee jalen and diaw for ten mil; jj at ten mil and all three playing the same positions, potentially and the same size. guess the suns can spend with the best of them, what is that payroll up to now? ill take jj but hope that diaw gets off his derriere that let up in the playoffs and lives up to the expectations of big bucks. my man nash needs him to produce more than that. if they wait too long it will be a long haul to make it up over there, too many teams to step over.

heading to the soup kitchen.

peace.

By William

November 8, 2006 09:00 AM | Link to this

For the people wondering what is wrong with Josh Smith, its the fact he can’t dribble. never has been able to. Last year, the Hawks ran a offense that consisted of more drive and kicks from Joe to cutters and spot up shooters, something that Josh is very good at. This year, the offensive flow is better but doesn’t suit Josh just yet. he just needs time to adjust. he is showing flashes. For all the critisizm, he still put up 15 last night and is still there defensively.

By gb

November 8, 2006 09:01 AM | Link to this

Doc The longer that crow sets on the plate, the tougher it gets.

By jhan

November 8, 2006 09:28 AM | Link to this

Can’t wait until Marvin is on the court instead of Frieje taking those passes for JJ. I will give Frieje his due. He is providing something we need.

By ray

November 8, 2006 09:28 AM | Link to this

I’m hearin’ you Lascho. The bandwagon is going to need another axle, LOL!

Clyde, good to see you around. I think Marvin will come in and give this team a charge-up when they really need it. He seems really fired up on the bench, showing lots of emotion. Hopefully he will come back in pretty good shape, eager to attack. That’s what I expect from him. By that time, we will probably have absorbed some tough losses coupled with more exciting wins. I don’t know how the minutes will go or who will suffer from it, but to tell you the truth…I hope he plays so well, they just can’t keep him on the bench. We need that second serious scoring threat that will make Zaza and Lue drop to third and fourth. Nothing against them at all, but we could use that kind of performance from Marvin that makes even Smoove take a back seat at times. It would only help.

By honest_abe

November 8, 2006 09:52 AM | Link to this

i find it hilarious that the residential hawks basher from the ajc has yet to write an article about the team…. sure Mr. Bradley, it’s easy to find fault in a team when they are in the middle of rebuilding and struggling. how about giving them some credit when things go right for once? even if after only 4 games. you know if the hawks had gone 0-4 in the first four there would’ve been some kind of piece from Bradley calling for BK’s head.

as for it being early… like i said earlier.. who cares? aj cautious optimism? man, when’s the last time the hawks have been two games over .500… lets just enjoy this while it lasts! #1 !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!haha sounds strange …

i do agree however once teams take the hawks seriously things won’t be as easy… but as long as these young bucks are focused on playing d and hustling on every play like it’s their last.. they have a shot to be competitive night in, night out.. i think the biggest difference from last year to the current one, is the depth… the hawks actually have some guys coming off that bench that can contribute..

THUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUNDER STICKS! LOL

By Astro Joe

November 8, 2006 09:54 AM | Link to this

What Marvin’s return will do is force Smith to step up his game. Let’s face it, Childress is as solid as they come. He has cemented himself into the rotation and has proven his value. He is a coach’s dream. So the playing time decision will come from either Shelden or Smith. Shelden isn’t getting that much and serves a specific purpose that Smith nor Marvin have proven they can do. So unless Smith begins to work on his entire game (defense too), then he may be the one who ultimately is expendable.

From a strictly basketball business perspective, Marvin is signed to a rookie deal that is 2 years longer than Smith’s contract. So if you have to choose, I’m guessing the better business decision is to pick the guy who stays on his rookie deal longer than the guy who will be asking for $8M+ 2 years earlier. Its a nice problem to have and as I stated several months ago, BK could have some nice trade assets if we want to move up in the ‘07 draft.

Clyde, proud of you man!

By roan st

November 8, 2006 10:41 AM | Link to this

Astro, I would agree that if marvin comes back and really steps up that j smoove could end up being the expendable one. Childress has a defined role of being a hustling do -all sixth man, a role I think he really embraces. However, I think we might be getting a little ahead of ourselves because Marvin hasn’t really proven himself yet either. His great summer league performance means nothing until he proves it will translate to the regular season. But if he does, jsmoove could be headed out of here which would have been unthinkable at the end of last season.

By honest_abe

November 8, 2006 11:04 AM | Link to this

does bk get any credit for this start… or is he still a bonehead that everyone wants to still get rid of? limited resources, ownership feud, he inherited a ridiculously large payroll with average, old players…….. within 4 years BK has give the hawks salary cap flexibility, the youngest roster in the league, a team with solid depth… considering all the obstacles he has been faced with, the constant bashing by both the press and fans… and he has assembled a team that still is probably a year away from making the playoffs, but he has given this franchise hope.. so i believe the man deserves some damn credit!

yes for all of you that didn’t know… i am bk’s personal p.r. man. :)

By Astro Joe

November 8, 2006 11:14 AM | Link to this

But Abe, if he had drafted Luol Deng, Chris Paul and Brandon Roy, we would be 4-0 and not 3-1. So he is still responsiblefor our 1 lost… the bum!

By Homer Simpson

November 8, 2006 11:15 AM | Link to this

MAN I AM PUMPED! Do you guys remember the last time we had a team that hustled this much on both ends of the court? It was 1993. That team had more vets, and more mature talent, but Lenny Wilkens took a mediocre team and taught them how to get after it. The result was the best basketball in Hawks history. Sure, it was ruined by trading Nique, but it was so much fun while it lasted, and it made me fall in love with this team again.

Some of our mid 90’s teams were great defensively, but they didn’t run as much as that ‘93 team did. This team has the ability to generate fast breaks of turnovers like that team did. That team was great because of the defensive ability of the guards. Last year, we got killed there because JJ was playing out of position. Now we are so much better, and Speedy’s darting hands will only help. Bozeman is a great addition. He is that Ira Newble we’ve been missing.

I don’t expect us to keep up a .750 clip, but I am feeling better and better about our chances at a .500 season. FOR ONCE WE WILL BE THAT TEAM NO ONE WANTS TO PLAY. FOR ONCE WE WILL BE THE TEAM THAT OVERACHIEVES. FINALLY WE WILL BE THE BETTER TEAM, NOT THE BETTER 5 PLAYERS.

Whatever folks have said about Mike Woodson (and much of it is true), you must give him credit for this. He has shown the utmost patience, determination, and TENACITY in motivating a group of young millionaires to relentlessly pursue VICTORY. Think of this while you watch Starbury and Franchise tenaciously pursue STATS. VICTORIES do not increase your next paycheck (unless you’re a coach) nearly as much as points per game. It takes a truly special coach to motivate his players tO PUT THE ‘W’ ABOVE PERSONAL STATS.

Here’s to Woodson for taking a young team with holes and making them wring every last bit of intensity out.

By HB Ando

November 8, 2006 11:17 AM | Link to this

Last year, the Hawks weren’t as bad as the way they started the season. This year, they won’t be as good. Joe’s “cautious optimism” is the best approach, though Abe’s totally fair in just enjoying the moment. They’re better, but even their worst critics (that would be me) expected improvement over last year. I’ve said it before, and Joe has said it before and again (as have others, like Doc, so I dont’ want to leave credit out for anyone else who has made that point), that teams will quickly adapt to the idea that the Hawks will fight you, and beat you, if you don’t bring your A game. So the road gets tougher, not easier.

My point, that will never rest, is not, and has never been, that we haven’t slowing improved under Billy Knight, but rather that his decisions have caused this process to be less successful, and much slower, than it should have been, under a competent GM.

I think Marvin only makes this team better, when he returns, though it will cause a few losses, as the rotations are re-set. But in the end, he brings a do-it-all forward to balance the court opposite JJ. He can both shoot and score, getting to the line almost at will. He will go to the boards.

I said, a million times, that the lineup most likely to produce wins was also the lineup that didn’t see Marvin and Josh playing together. Marvin’s injury has forced us to play a bigger lineup, capable of defending the lane. The roles, with either of them out, are more classically defined by NBA positions. When Marvin returns, you’ll still have the obvious talents of he and Josh forcing the coaches hand on giving them plenty of playing time together. But it will come at the cost of minutes to Shelden and Wright, and may render the team less effective. The wins aren’t surprising, because we’re not having to deal with what it does to the team to have both Marvin and Josh on the floor together, for major minutes. Although, Zaza’s continued development certainly brings to question just who the second or third scoring option on this team is (as it seemed to most that Josh and Marvin would assume the #’s 2 and 3 slots).

Marvin’s return will, ultimately, make this team stronger. But the conundrum of playing those two together still has be tested out. And it may slow down the progression of wins, when it does.

And as far as bandwagon’s go, the the Hawks’ stops by my neighborhood, it can pass on by the West household. There’s no panic in this opinion. I’ll stick to my guns for a larger sample size, and just admit I was wrong if that’s the way the season plays itself out. And I will root for the Hawks every time, in spite of any predictions I’ve made contrary to their success.

I still say 34 wins.

By HB Ando

November 8, 2006 11:20 AM | Link to this

JJ seems to have a knack for saying a lot, with very few words:

“It feels good, but it’s a long season,” Johnson said. “Three-and-one doesn’t mean a lot right now. We’ve got to keep grinding it out, working hard and who knows what’s going to happen.”

By honest_abe

November 8, 2006 11:22 AM | Link to this

haha … indeed… don’t forget that he wasn’t smart enough to catch on to phoenix’s obvious bluff… that move alone set this franchise back 15 more years!

By honest_abe

November 8, 2006 11:36 AM | Link to this

ya my win projection still hasn’t changed…. i hope i’m wrong… but i just don’t see how this team is going to consistently win games toward the end of the season.. when teams are fighting for their playoff lives..

as for marv. coming back.. that is the first thought that entered my head last night when i saw the last minute of overtime.. how was he going to affect the chemistry of the team.. i think anytime you add someone as talented as marv.. it can only help.. but ando’s right in that the quick start must be attributed to the DEFENSE.. and i don’t know if marv and josh is a better DEFENSIVE duo that josh and sheldon..

anywho.. ando as for your comments on bk.. i think we have yet to see the entire vision for the team that bk has in mind.. we are getting a glimpse this year.. for all the bad moves you can pick out… lets give him some credit for the good ones… jj (which is an argument i think we’ve rehashed at least a million times on this blog) but in the end i think everyone is glad we got him, regardless of how we got him… zaza, aj has constantly pointed out how this just might be THE single best move by any gm in the past few years… look how much stiffs such as eddy curry, chandler, dampier make… and look at our very own tony montanta.. getting better every day and still very young.. this kids’ offensive potential is a lot higher than most of us gave him credit for… signin lue on the cheap… drafting j. smith ( ya, ya obvious hometown pick, whatever.. he still had to make the pick), and i still like the chills pick… he’s that guy that does all the intangible… he’s really coming into his own as a perimeter defender.. and last time i checked we’re still under the salary cap :) not bad for a gm i’d say…

By Ken Strickland

November 8, 2006 11:43 AM | Link to this

LACSHO, I’M still here my friend and fellow believer. There are only two things that supprises me about the Hawks early success. (1)They’ve accomplished it with one starter, MWilliams, on IR and a 2nd, SClaxton, coming off IR and missing camp. (2)They’ve turned half the roster over, 3 rookies, 1 2nd yr player and 2 vets.

This is just the beginning of the 3rd yr of a complete team makeover. ASTRO, G-MONEY, don’t worry about these players or this team burning out. This coaching staff has proven it can motivate these players to improve and stay competitive. After losing seasons of 13 and 26 wins respectively, this team and players showed marked improvement after each allstar break. I don’t think they will have a problem motivating them towards a playoff berth and a winning season. Besides, we have more usable talent this yr.

Woody and Billy finally have the players needed to play individual and team DEF. We overcame turnovers and missed FT’s by playing unrelenting DEF for 5 periods. Cleveland didn’t give us this game, we took it. There will be stretches where the team will faulter, but overall we will prevail. I TOLD YOU SO, HE HE. I’m not saying I told you so because I want to gloat, but because what’s taking place with this team is good for everybody. GO HAWKS AND ALL TRUE HAWKS FANS!!!!!!!

By Ken Strickland

November 8, 2006 11:45 AM | Link to this

I almost forgot. CLYDE, you are all right with me. Good post.

By Clyde

November 8, 2006 12:01 PM | Link to this

Don’t get things twisted now. I’m still sticking to my 30-52 predition. Its up to the team to prove me wrong.

By JohnD

November 8, 2006 12:06 PM | Link to this

Clyde,

Glad you are here in the good times.

Early yet, but the team has shown they can win without playing above their game on offense. Turnovers and poor shooting but a victory.

Defense wins in the short - term and the long - term and this Hawks team plays hard defense. There is a good upside for this team and the possibility of a winning season is not as absurd as some writers here would lead us to believe.

By G-Money

November 8, 2006 12:10 PM | Link to this

Ando, sorry that you are now backed into a corner. These Hawks are way better at this point than any of us expected, let’s be honest (huh Abe?). The question will be one of really understanding how good these Hawks are in reality. Is this a fluke due to the beginning of the season or is this as real as the turnaround that occured with the Hornets last year even though they didn’t make the playoffs?

Let the bandwagon continue to roll. No one really knows how far it might go. I’m on it for as long as we can ride it.

By Astro Joe

November 8, 2006 01:42 PM | Link to this

Okay, now that the buzz has finally left me from last night’s victory, how about making Speedy inactive for the next 2 games? If he is already experiencing knee problems this early in the season, no need for him to think about playing back-to-back games. Activate Ivey and start either him or Lue (I think Lue is better coming off the bench). Give Bozeman a shot at the PG position for a few minutes and let’s get Salim in there for a little run. I know we want Speedy to get to know his teammates, but it is more important that he give us 65-70 quality starts this season. I’ve got a bad feeling about this knee stuff and would sooner just let him get some rest this weekend than possibly see it become a long-term issue. If it this seems like a transparent ploy to get one of my favorite Hawks some time (Salim), then you’re probably right.

By Astro Joe

November 8, 2006 01:45 PM | Link to this

Oh and like Rumsfeld, the Republican-controlled Congress and a George Allen for President bumper sticker, I’m OUT.

Oops, did I mix politics with basketball… my bad!

Mike Woodson for Secretary of Defense

By doc

November 8, 2006 02:27 PM | Link to this

lascho, i wasnt dissing the team just making a statement that this wasnt a game that we should win and if we didnt it would say more as to how they played than whether they won. it was a game the cavs will beat themselves up about and be a defining win if our hawks keep it up as lesser teams come to play.

i have been cautiously optimistic for some time. i look to see improvement but nothing to project them into the playoffs unless speedy gets well fast, i liked his 6 steals in the game over the weekend.

i have been proud of this team, win or lose based on their effort and was saying that and getting beaten dearly this time last year. i was even giving a lot of cred to woody for their improved focus in difficult times and bk for keeping the team upbeat. i am still not ready for playoff tix but am enjoying their success and hopes it comes in wins but am able to look for other things that mean growth.

two in a row for roll tide clyde.

funny, i am getting called out for being negative.

heh heh, this blog is getting too soft.

maybe i can instigate something with flash by a throwdown on his buddy be…., no wont go there.

ando i have you down for 32 wins, you upped it to 34 after the quick start? guess you had them for 1 and 3 thus far. look out guys he may have them to a .500 projection before the first of the year.

honest the article said the last time was four years ago with a 3 and 1 start unfortunately, it went down from there, got babcock fired and now the rest of the story.

By mykhalc

November 8, 2006 02:28 PM | Link to this

JOE, i live in SF so you can imagine how i feel about what took place last nite in the coun…i’m mean hawks game!!LOL GREAT WIN!!;o)

as you probably know i’m NOT a fan of SALIM’s game!! so i say let him EARN his time, THE REAL WAY!!! BOZEMAN is doin’ a good job off the bench. i say give him more time if SPEEDY is the least bit injured. in fact, give BOZEMAN some looks at the 2 also. if SALIM is to see the court, i believe it’s gonna have to be with either JJ or BOZEMAN at the 1. otherwise the backcourt is just tooooooo small.

i’m really ready to see MARVIN back out there. curious like most, to see him and JS on the court together. hopefully, it works. but like you mentioned JOE about MW’s contract length, i think he will be the HAWKS long-term investment. but BK has positioned the team to be able to re-sign both to big contracts if they prove their on-court play together works!! but if they don’t, i’d LUV to see BK work a trade for KG involving JS, SALIM, and whatever else kitchen sink that needs to be thrown in to get THAT deal done!! KG, on the HAWKS front-line??!!!! man, somethin’ special woulda have to have happened in the country last nite for that to happened!!!LOL but i really am hoping that both MW and JS are a good on-court mix!!!

By newkid

November 8, 2006 02:30 PM | Link to this

Seems Brendan Haywood (27 year-old, legit 7-footer with a $4.5 mil current salary that increases marginally over the next 4 years) may be immediately available. His agent recently said - after a fight between Haywood and new starting center E. Thomas - the team wasn’t a good fit for Brendan. Nothing against Lo Wright, but if the Wizards were willing to take a Wright/Ivey package (or Haywood and a 2nd round pick in the ‘07 draft for a Wright/Salim package - apologies AJ), could Haywood be a piece worth pursuing?

By Astro Joe

November 8, 2006 02:33 PM | Link to this

Wow, even Shelden got a little praise from a prominent basketball junkie website. And a good review of Bozeman too.

(http://www.draftexpress.com/blogs.php?blogid=8)

By Astro Joe

November 8, 2006 03:32 PM | Link to this

Newkid, we need Flash to answer that question about Haywood. But from what I can tell from relatives in the DC area, Haywood is about as soft as a fat baby’s bottom. So if Wright is here to help us be a tough team down low, Haywood would be the anti-Wright. I understand your logic, if he ever got motivated he has the size and skills to be a very effective player. But I wouldn’t risk it, plus, I’m sure he will be very motivated when playing the Wizards, so they will not likely trade him within the division.

By Jay

November 8, 2006 03:54 PM | Link to this

Like other real Hawks fans are saying…I think it might be a good idea to move either J-Smith or Marvin, depending on who develops. Its obvious that we reached on Sheldan with the 5th pick, but that said he looks like a solid 8-10 ppg with 7-10 boards. Plus he seems content chilling downlow, unlike J-Smith roaming the perimeter to prove he can shoot a jumper. Of course, if we had drafted Chris Paul, this would have been a problem at all. So yes, I still dont like Knight. I give Woodson TONS of credit for making this very unconventional mismatch lineup work.

By roan st

November 8, 2006 04:05 PM | Link to this

Newkid, the whole fight centered on the fact that haywood was benched in favor of thomas. Haywood’s agent made some disparaging remarks about how haywood should be the starter and apparently thomas took it personal, thus the fight ensued. The fact that haywood was benched in favor of the underwhelming thomas says a lot about haywoods game.

By newkid

November 8, 2006 04:26 PM | Link to this

Joe & Roan St, thanks for the insight. Brendan had similar ‘soft’ reputation when he was wearing the Carolina blue, but I think he was near the top of our all-time list for field goal percentage and maybe blocked shots. He’s a young, experienced big time space eater in the middle who will probably never intimidate the Shaqs of the NBA. Awfully enticing salary structure (~$5.5 mil per annum over 4 years) for a pretty athletic and serviceable 7-footer when you consider the likes of Nene raking in $10 mil per annum. Flash, any additional D.C. scuttlebutt on the guy?

By Native Son

November 8, 2006 05:42 PM | Link to this

**I LOVE IT WHEN A PLAN COMES TOGETHER.TO ALL OF YOU FAKERS,THE BANDWAGON LOADS UP AT 6:00 PM,AT THE FIVE POINTS STATION.

By Reasonable Dawg

November 8, 2006 06:21 PM | Link to this

Clyde…good call on T Lue not walking the ball up court. I have always wondered why he was not thought of more highly. His offense was never a question in my mind, but it was definitely something missing. T Parker, J Kidd, S Nash, and C Paul all share the common trait of forcing tempo. If Lue keeps pushing the ball then I say its hard to say Speedy is definitely the starter.

And as Hawks fans, are we allowed to speaks C Paul’s name. I’m just askin’.

By ray

November 8, 2006 11:59 PM | Link to this

Speedy’s sore knees make ME nervous too. Glad we kept Bozeman, he may be a help. I probably sound crazy as hell, but if we’re keeping options open ( in spite of how well Lue has played so far) we might still want to keep an eye on the pg situation in Boston. Just a thought…

I can’t wait to see Marvin on the floor. He’s going to be rusty, I’m sure. Those who feel like Marvin was drafted because of the possible signs of Smith’s shortcomings may be right. I seem to remember Knight and Woodson saying that Marvin brought something to the table that none of the other forwards (excluding JJ, he’s mostly a guard in their eyes) did. We could speculate about it all day, and we probably will, at least until he returns to the court. I think Ando’s right, as good as Marvin may become, he may not provide enough of the low post presence to warrant heavy minutes on the floor alongside Smith. Shelden eventually will, maybe sooner than later. But with a trade being the smart thing to do once the aforementioned scenario is played out, how much time will Shelden get? I mean, you have to assume that a trade will be for a serious upgrade at the 4 or 5 spot. Then again, around here such assumptions are foolish…Oh well, perhaps too soon to be talkin’ trades. Then again…

By ray

November 9, 2006 12:03 AM | Link to this

Tough defense and buying into a coaches philosophy helped the Bulls get a long ways. It took a full season for teams to realize that they were going to have a tough time against the Bulls. The Hawks can accomplish something along the same lines, but they have to stay committed as a team. It can’t be JJ and some others carrying on while a few others lag behind or get upset over PT. They have to trust and listen to Woodson. Woodson has to continue to make good game-time decisions. That’s how it worked in Chicago for Skiles and his gang. He demanded absolute authority, and they complied. His coaching was solid, and his players executed accordingly. We CAN do the same. It’s the only thing that will ensure that we remain competitive when the road gets tougher. We know it will…