Hawks

By vdunkndunk

November 8, 2006 04:12 PM | Link to this

Sekou, I agree with everything you said. I like the fact that Josh Smith did more dirty work on offense last night, posting up and attacking the basket instead of hanging around on the perimeter. And Josh Childress has been the solid glue/energy guy we need him to be.

And I like our depth. Playing guys like Shelden Williams and Lorenzon Wright instead of Batista and John Edwards makes a big difference.

And I like Bozeman better than Ivey or Salim so far, to be honest. When we get Marvin and Speedy going full speed again, we will be deeper than we’ve been in years.

One last thing about Speedy, though. True, it’s too early to jump on him for the way he’s played, because when he’s healthy he’s proven that he’s a much better than he’s been so far.

The problem is, he’s also proven throughout his career that he can’t stay healthy. That’s the problem I have with him…how often are we actually going to see him at full speed and healthy?

By Matt

November 8, 2006 04:14 PM | Link to this

Claxton may be still recovering, but he’s not playing well at all. He should be sitting if he can’t contribute yet. And where is Salim? Bozeman is getting all his minutes- I thought Salim was ready to be the guy we needed him to be (pass first / make every open shot).

The biggest surprise is that Joe Johnson is playing even better than we thought. Is he not getting the respect that he deserves? Will we see a few more double teams on Kid Dy-no-mite?

-Matt from Hotlanta Hawks Blog

By David

November 8, 2006 04:17 PM | Link to this

As strange as it may seem, it appears after four games into the season that the Hawks will win the NBA championship this season. They have impressed like no other Atlanta team has in last 20 years. It’s unbelievable what Billy Knight, Dominique Wilkins, and the rest of the front office have put together for the fans of Atlanta to enjoy—-A Bona Fide Winner!!!!!

By hawksfan33

November 8, 2006 04:23 PM | Link to this

I agree…This is my first post, but since I went to the game in Charlotte last year (lived there temporarily, wanted to se my Hawks play) I knew J.Chill was underrated watching him in person. I really think this team has great potential. As Sekou said, its early, but its great to speculate 3-1 as opposed to 0-4 (ala 2005). One Marvin gets back into the groove, look out. It will be interesting to see what all the “experts” who decided the Hawks will be the laughingstock of the leage will be saying once the Hawks are in the thick of the playoff race. Will these same pundits still be calling for Billy’s job?

By Kira Daniels

November 8, 2006 04:24 PM | Link to this

I really dont care about this because they will not beat the Heat on November the 18

By doc

November 8, 2006 04:24 PM | Link to this

matt “jj is playing even better than we thought”, what grave did you just get out of. the guy is a warrior worth every pick and buck we paid for him putting this team ahead of the curve for return to prominance. i’m not getting on the wagon either, said it so many times last year i should have put it over to the side just to plug in.

now, back off speedy, the guy put the stops on orlando’s budding star with 6 steals in one game with “hurtin knees”. how often in this or the last century has anyone had those kind of nimbers on d in a hawk uni.

By mountain_jim

November 8, 2006 04:25 PM | Link to this

Shelden had by far his best game so far last night I thought.

Unfortunately for me, last night may be the last game I see for awhile (up here in NC Charlotte country) as the FSS games are blacked out and I am not comfortable with paying for NBA League Pass right now… The free preview allowed me to see the (great and exciting) game last night, so maybe if the Hawks continue to have a good season I will take them up on a discounted offer for the Pass later in the season.

And if the Hawks really turn heads maybe they can be added to some of the network national game schedule - or are all of those games set before the season starts?

By G-Money

November 8, 2006 04:25 PM | Link to this

Sekou, great column once again and thanks for reading the blogs and responding. I agree with you on all of the points. I for one, was uncertain of what Chills would bring to the table, and I have been thoroughly impressed. I also saw JSmoove trying to handle LeBron, an impossible task. I also saw all the non-calls and calls that he got. That is pretty sickening to watch. I think it’s worse than the calls Michael used to get by a long shot. I also appreciate the reassurance that fewer minutes for our starters is a positive. Some talk like minutes are so scarce to come by that it’s an either/or situation with JS, MW, SW and JC. Lastly, I do believe as someone posted earlier, defense can win games both at the beginning of the season as well as throughout the 7 month season. I was at 35 wins, but I just believe that if everyone is healthy these guys can make a run for an 8th spot (they’ll probably come up short), and wouldn’t that be something to blog about in March instead of the draft. Sekou, whatever happened to the other guy invited to camp, Andre Brown?? Could the Hawks actually sign him if Batista or Ivey were gone? What would he be able to offer that the Hawks aren’t getting already?

By happy2bnappy

November 8, 2006 04:33 PM | Link to this

Sekou, all of your points are well taken, but the HAWKS have me concerned about the number of turnovers they have. In the Cav’s game, they had 20 of ‘em. Had the Cav’s been able to convert half of them, the outcome would have been different. They must stop the blood loss in turnovers if they are going to make it through the EAST. That being said, I am hoping that the Hawks end up 9-4 or 8-5 during the month of November. You have to get a good start through this 7month process. I really can see us winning the next 3 games between Toronto, Sonics, and Bucs and go into the Miami game 6-1!! Go Hawks, My Beloved Hawks!! Season ticket holder sect. 222

By JB

November 8, 2006 04:35 PM | Link to this

Correction, Sekou: The Hawks have “piqued” my interest. But my interest thankfully has not “peaked”. :-) Seriously, ain’t this tha bomb? My 15-year-old was working late into the night on a school project, and I was proud of (or was that disappointed in?) myself for not pulling him off of it, even when the game went to OT. But I can see some serious father-son bonding in front of the tube if this keeps up. Remember when the Braves began their most recent era of dominance—the hopes & dreams of a whole city were lifted, and I think the Hawks could do that in A-town.

By JR

November 8, 2006 04:38 PM | Link to this

Even though Lue is one of the strangest looking dudes I have ever seen (he should sue his weaver), his hustle diving for balls, taking charges, shooting amongest the trees was truly a great effort last night. He may be the poster boy for this team!

By JB

November 8, 2006 04:43 PM | Link to this

I agree with JR on Lue. We all said we needed an improvement at point guard, but this guy ain’t nothing but a winner. TALK ABOUT ATTITUDE!

By Astro Joe

November 8, 2006 04:44 PM | Link to this

Woody really needs to sit Speedy down for at least the next 2 games. I’m not quite sure how a finger injury affects his ability to get his legs ready for the season, but I’ll drink that Kool-Aid and worry about the after-taste later.

So, can we expect Marvin back in the next 3-4 weeks? And did Zaza recover from the Hulk Hogan elbow to his jaw?

Oh, and did I mention that Speedy needs to sit down for the games this weekend? That finger-bone-connected-to-the-knee-bone thing is a real problem.

By Astro Joe

November 8, 2006 04:50 PM | Link to this

One more quick thing, its amazing what winning will do for a guy’s rep. Childres is doing EXACTLY what he did all of last year and his rookie season. And now, with a nice winning record, he is considered a valuable asset to this team. And about 10 NBA games ago, dude was a bum. Winning really does cure everything… the short-sightedness of many fans. Enjoy the bandwagon, we welcome you with comfortable seats, cold beverages and hot wings. Go Hawks!

By bootsybug

November 8, 2006 04:51 PM | Link to this

i forgot how tough and gritty lue was until he reminded me last night. along with shelden, he’s the toughest guy on the team (somehow i don’t consider esteban on this team anymore) and he doesn’t back down from anyone.

i think this team will finish over .500 because it (a) been together for a while now and has built some chemistry, and (b) we have added the quality depth we have needed.

i’m not looking at the record and pretending it means anything yet. what i am looking at is the overall quality of play - the hustle, execution, energy, and interior defense. these guys are getting better all the time.

way to go hawks.

By SALT SHAKER

November 8, 2006 04:58 PM | Link to this

THE BEST HAS YET 2 COME,WATCH THIS SQUAD GET BETTER AS THE SEASON PROGRESS.THE HAWKS HAS NEVER HAD THIS MANY TALENTED PLAYERS,ON THE SAME TEAM. THE GOOD THANG IS…THEY ARE ALL YOUNG! WHOEVER SAID BILLY KNIGHT DON’T KNOW TALENT,NEED 2 CHECKOUT THEIR MIRROW! THESE BIRDS CAN FLY.SALT SHAK’N ON THAT “A”

By Tyger

November 8, 2006 05:11 PM | Link to this

Crank up the Bandwagon and make room for the Haters!!!

For the Hawks loyalists, this is the proud feeling of redemption, for the haters, they’re stirring their pots and poking their voodoo dolls hoping for the worst. Surely, plenty of time remains, but it tastes so sweet right now.

Joe Johnson is an incredible player and he’ll show more as the talent around him improves.

ZaZa is trying on the defensive end, a big improvement, always had offense, but now he’s starting to lead. Maybe most improved???

Josh Smith is a different player when he’s driving to the hole, almost unstoppable. Hope he realizes that.

Childress is already a candidate for 6th man of the year.

Speedy is a waste, but for public relations sake, we had to get a PG, b/c so many cried about us not getting Paul.

Shelden, Lorenzen, Bozeman and Frieje were shear genius.

Cant wait for Marvin, Salim and Solomon to get involved.

By Reasonable Dawg

November 8, 2006 05:57 PM | Link to this

Sekou Smith…The Hawks have not made a believer out of Leggler on ESPN. Last night after the game he was praising the Hawks and still took a shot at us while doing so. “You have to give the Hawks some love now, bcuz it wont last long”. He just dismisses the fact that this team just might be legit.

He did mention the Defense though.

By pockasnocka

November 8, 2006 05:58 PM | Link to this

For the first time in a long time I feel some hopefulness about the Hawks.

By ScoobySnacks

November 8, 2006 06:01 PM | Link to this

Everybody here laughed at me when I said 56 and 26 would be the record this year. Whose laughng now. Getting my giggles in while I can.

By brendan

November 8, 2006 06:11 PM | Link to this

these guys suck, they’ll be lucky to win 20 games this year

By Trent

November 8, 2006 06:13 PM | Link to this

Can someone tell me what Speedy was doing during training camp that didnt allow him to run? “umm..coach, I hurt my finger and I cant run with the team this month, so when the season starts up, it will take me time to get my legs back in shape”. Sounds good Speedy, now lay down and rest that hand of yours, we wouldnt want our 25 million dollar investment to get tired in training camp!

By TD

November 8, 2006 06:13 PM | Link to this

The Hawks have impressed me the first few games of the season, but my free preview of the nba league pass has ended! Argh! The Hawks do have to reduce the turnovers (what’s with the traveling?) and do a better job keeping the other team off of the offensive boards. but hey, this is soooooooooooo much better than last year!

By morris

November 8, 2006 06:14 PM | Link to this

Who the hell is tim legler to dismiss the hawks! He played for the sorry a* washington bullets and to my knowledge never was part of a good playoff team. These half witted ex ball players that espn hires are a joke. It’s like when Jay Bilas ripped jsmoove on draft night, and he himself was never even remotely good enough to play in the NBA. I have to laugh at these morons when they make these kind of statements.

By brendan

November 8, 2006 06:23 PM | Link to this

no center, no point guard, no chance- 20-62

By Ed W.

November 8, 2006 06:26 PM | Link to this

You’re dead on about Woodson and the defense. It looks 1000% better than last year. They still have individual weaknesses, but they have been helping so much better and haven’t made near as many mistakes on D as last year. Prime example of their improvement: Zaza on several occasions jumping out on the opposing dribblers on a screen & roll, forcing him back some to mess up the play, then scurrying back t pick up his man. Where the hell did that come from!

By HB Ando

November 8, 2006 06:47 PM | Link to this

Shelden, sheer genius, at #5.

Now I’ve heard everything.

Roy, at #6, was sheer genius. If you can’t differentiate, then there’s not much left to say.

By The Flash

November 8, 2006 07:04 PM | Link to this

I forget, who was that out of town guy who has been CONSISTENTLY singing the praises of J Chill. How soon they forget, Astroman. And, I did say over 500, the day before the season started and I am sticking to it.

You need MW, SW and Josh, along with Chill. SW will play the 4 more like Al, but will hurt people with his cleverness in and around the basket more. He will drift to the perimeter, especially when he is “feeling it” and guys will get it to him and he will stretch the defense to open things up for his own penetration and others posting etc. This team needs Josh, and his effectiveness will only improve when MW returns. So will Shellie’s. Shellie can use quality time on the bench, interspersed with his play, to digest the game as it is a real live thing. He is bright and mature and will make good use of playing fewer minutes with ever improving quality.

And, Doc, last I read, my boy is making his presence felt and known; no coincidence that things are starting to look up. And, if you think things are rockin now, just wait til … . Only teasing; that thing is what it is and will be what it will be. The Hawks are trippin, Doc, it’s all good!

By Jambazy

November 8, 2006 07:22 PM | Link to this

Really surprised by the play of Frije(spp). Not surprised by chillz, he has been doing the same thing the last 2 yrs. MW coming back cuts some of the mins off JJ, and this will save wear and tear for the long run. Claxton is still not in game shape so lets hope measured mins will help in the next few. Ques!! MW coming back….Off the bench? Lue, the way he’s playing(consistent ball), and finishing games….Starter? The last spot…..What kind of player should we get? Go Hawks. ATL 4 ever

By roan st

November 8, 2006 07:30 PM | Link to this

Ando, you act as if five other teams didn’t pass on roy as well. The team that has to be the sickest is the timberwolves since they drafted him and traded his draft rights to portland. I thought garnett needed a good running mate? Maybe the hawks could have drafted him but it would have been at the expense of j smith and marvin williams. From what I have seen roy will mostly be a two guard in the NBA. Our lineup would have been speedy pg, roy sg, jj sf, mw or js pf, zaza c. That would have signaled the end of either js or mw. That actually wouldn’t be that bad of a lineup, especially if marvin came into his own. I’m not justifying shelden williams because I will admit he looks like a stiff to me so far, but the truth is roy didn’t really go until the 7th pick. Why did so many pundits tab this guy as rookie of the year, yet so many teams went another direction? All I’m saying is that 5 other GM’s passed on this guy who everyone thought was going to be a great player right away. WHY?

By HB Ando

November 8, 2006 07:51 PM | Link to this

I’m not sure how the math works, but I think if the defense was 1000% better, and they gave up an average of 100 points per game last year, that they’d be giving up 10 per game this year.

Joe, you’ve hit on my point about Childress’ value: he’s going to be the sixth man here forever. He may just be capable of starting for another team. His minutes will shrink as soon as Marvin comes back, because he’s still a 2-3, and that puts him behind Johnson, Josh and Marvin, for minutes. Bozeman can do much of what Childress brings to the floor, both ends of it. At some point the front office will need to get creative and leverage Childress’ greater value as a trade asset than as a sixth man. How about we package him with Speedy for a PG of unquestionable starter quality (never said I didn’t like Speedy, I’d just like to see us make a move for an upgrade, sometime soon after Marvin returns).

If we were to move Marvin or Josh, after this season, then keeping Childress would make sense. But watch him struggle for minutes, unless the team decides to move Johnson back to the point, once Marvin returns. And with Lue playing well, how likely is that. This team, and the coaching staff, finally admitted, through it’s actions, that Billy’s idea of Johnson as a point guard was misguided, and failed to maximize his abilities on the court. Now that Johnson is working off the ball, he’s averaging nearly 30 a game. That’s no surprise.

By Lacsho

November 8, 2006 08:02 PM | Link to this

Doc I’m not bashing you; I have to much respect for you. I just had to slide one in there.

Ando I hear you, and hopefully we can prove you wrong. I know you will have no problem admitting it. You are a stand up dude.

The bandwagon is getting heavy, and I say it’s all good. When the Hawks hit a hole in the road, I hope the new fans will hang on. (Doubtful)

I think the personnel within the league knows the Hawks come to plain just about every night. Now if we can only get the respect from the Refs, perhaps we will be getting some calls.

It’s good to see Josh Smith driving to the hole. I told my son when I use to watch Doctor J he hardly ever settled for a jump shot. I think Doctors handles are better than Josh, but Josh can leap with the best of them. Maybe the last couple of years in the league Doctor J took more jump shots, but that’s to be expected. If Josh patterned his game after Doctor J, it would be a wrap! I think that’s a fair comparison. Don’t jump on me to hard fellows!! lol

Peace and I’m gone!!!!!

By jhan

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

I don’t think Childress will lose too much playing time when Marvin returns. Bozeman & Frieje will lose time. We also saw Childress playing a little point last night. That is a huge backcourt with JJ & Childress. If Bozeman continues to play D and hit the open 3 like he did last night, Salim might never see the court.

By Bear

November 8, 2006 09:12 PM | Link to this

Sekou,

Your points are well made, but you didn’t say anything about the coaching. Woodson needs to keep this team inspired (something that has been lacking in past seasons), continue to develop game plans that work, and continue to make the tactical adjustments which are in evidence this year but seemed non-existent last year. Woodson is the only one who can make these Hawks fly or clip their wings. The talent is there to have a fairly respectable season, but only Woodson must continue to fan the flame of desire to win.

By JohnD

November 8, 2006 09:15 PM | Link to this

Been here for the last month or more saying the Hawks have the complimentary players in place and received a lot of flack for saying so. The shooting percentage and the turnovers are a concern but defense can make up for those problems. The Cleveland game is an excellent example.

This team played hard all last year, competed and was actually close in more games than they were given credit. The young players have learned much about the NBA and an 82 game season while enduring the misery of losing. I do not think they want to go back there. All of that said, the team must be relatively injury free (Zaza, JJ and Lue) to stay competitive and must improve the ball handling and shooting. Confidence is a big step toward taking care of those aspects and the confidence comes from winning. Now they are still fun to watch, to measure the progress and to look to the future but a winning record is a long tough road.

A post predicting 20 wins was entered here twice so he thinks the team will go 17-61 for the remainder of the year. People voted for Democrats so I guess anything negative is possible.

By redhawk

November 8, 2006 09:41 PM | Link to this

Sekou—numbers 6 & 7—T Lue is the Rodney Dangerfield of the NBA—the guy always comes up big for us, and don’t get no respect—And ZaZa is playing better than ever—and it’s great to see a big man who can SHOOT FOUL SHOTS! he’s around 80% right now—and one more thing they haven’t given up a 100 points yet

By Nookah

November 8, 2006 09:55 PM | Link to this

It is amazing how many pre-season predictions we are being reminded of when we are 3-1. However, it’s all good. Glad to see some “consensus optimism” for once. Keep it up guys!! I too welcome the “waggonists”!!

However, some of us are quite hard on some of the guys. Give Speedy a break!! (no pun intended). He will be fine after a few more games.

I also agree with a previous blogger who said “i’m not looking at the record and pretending it means anything yet. what i am looking at is the overall quality of play - the hustle, execution, energy, and interior defense. these guys are getting better all the time”. Couldn’t have said it better Sir…nuff respect!!

That’s also what has impressed me the most, not necessarily that they are winning. It’s the improvement in the fundamentals. Against Cleveland they had 25 assists. Just hope they can be consistent and it’s great to see.

Oh by the way have you all noticed Woody on the sidelines? He sure looks more relaxed to me. After all he’s no longer a rookie.

Go Hawks!!! Nuff Respect!!! Jamaican Hawk!!

By Ken Strickland

November 8, 2006 10:44 PM | Link to this

JOHND, the people that voted Democratic were concerned, intelligent people that were simply fed up. They were fed up with the corruption, greed, lies, war mongering, racial profiling, fiscal irresponsibility and child molestation that has come to define the Republican Party. Your response seems to indicate you don’t have a problem with these issues. I hope you have a more openminded view of the Hawks.

Everyone knows I am not a negative minded thinker, especially when it comes to the Hawks. Their solid DEF performance and quick start has solidified my prediction of winning between 55-60% of their games. BK and Woody have put together one of the most talented teams in the NBA. The drawback is they are not one of the most skilled, but that will come with time. GO HAWKS!!!!!!

By Lacsho

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

Don’t know if this is true, but I think I herd this on sports radio 790 the zone, or it may have been 680 the fan. David stern issued a statement to the media outlets and especially ESPN, which stated do not show the incident where Lebron walked off the court with eights seconds left in the game, during last nights lost. He’s really trying to down play this incident. If it would have been any other player for example, Carmello, Rasheed, Kobe etc this would have been front page on every newspaper, and Espn would have replayed it every 20 mins. I don’t care for TO’s antics on the football field, but do you notice that they have a special camera that follows him during the game. Bottom line this stinks. Back to basketball I have notice that some players can argue calls, while others receive techs for facial expressions. Why do they give these sorry refs so much power? Why are they taking the fun out of the game? I played college basketball, and I played while I was in the Army, and it would suck if I had to play it emotionless!!!

Ken don’t fall for that political statement. Deep in our hearts we know what time it is, so don’t even acknowledge ignorant statements. Remember what happened on the Falcons blog. We should only reconize sports comments, and let the other people remain miserable. That’s why I like this blog so much b/c normally we don’t have to deal with that outside crap. Peace my brother

By tb

November 9, 2006 01:59 AM | Link to this

John D: I’ve seen two of your posts reflecting your views on politics and morality. GET LOST. This isn’t the place.

Ando: Do you really like the Hawks man? When they were losing , you couldn’t stop b

By tb

November 9, 2006 07:10 AM | Link to this

cont… bashing them. Now their winning and the best you can do is ask for trades.

Hum..

BK has done a good job IMO. He has put a new and exciting product on the court. There is a B-ball present and future in ATL now and it is bright. If their is eventually a trade, so be it. Until then, I am going to appreciate these Hawks for what they are.

By G-Money

November 9, 2006 07:41 AM | Link to this

Ken, appreciate your comments. Now, what about the Raptors? Bosh goes for 30 something last night. It looks like another challenging night for Josh Smith. LeBron one night, Bosh the next. That’s pretty intense. I guess the trend of big men shooting three’s is heating up as well. It was reported that Bosh was practicing his 3-ball over the summer and it showed last night with him making the game winner over the 76er’s last night. What I like as the antidote is ZaZa’s ability inside which should free JSmoove to go for 18.

On another note, does it seem as though the NBA is in a state of flux. Dallas is 0-4. Utah is rising.The Hawks are on top of their division. Yes, it’s early, but something’s very different and it ain’t just the ball.

By THL

November 9, 2006 07:42 AM | Link to this

3-1 is what it is…a good start. Lets hope the Hawks keep up the competitiveness they’ve shown and they can really make the “experts” eat crow.

As far as the Democrat crack…whatever. If GA wants to remain blindly loyal to a party that has done so poorly by us these last few years, we deserve what we get.

I’m glad Sekou mentioned the calls Lebron is getting. I think it’s sickening that David Stern and the NBA are always concerned about cracking down on players and calling more technical fouls but never cracks down on the favoritism nba refs show certain players. For goodnes sake, Miami won an NBA championship because people weren’t allowed to touch D Wade.

By doc

November 9, 2006 07:44 AM | Link to this

lascho babe, we’re cool. just taking the oportunity to point out the contrast to what it has been over here. still a long way to go but have liked the way this team has worked even in the face of severe adversity. that comes from woody and bk despite the record.

ando, get off the roy train you were on another one before the draft, that one belongs to flach and me to talk trash on. werent you the one so high on that guy from texas that is being shopped around on as a bigger dud than everyone thought sheldon was going to be? :@)

By doc

November 9, 2006 08:24 AM | Link to this

seems things are topsy turvy so far this year. they are even commenting on it on yahoo by kerr noting the slow starts by the suns and mavs noting the starts by our hawks and the sixers because of the d they play. this trend started last year in the playoffs and are continuing. will be intereing to see how long it lasts.

cudos to big al over in indy as he gets off to a good start as well as the team pacers. hope it doesnt last because of the draft pick but hate to pull against anyone nowadays.

another TRIPLE SINGLE for diaw last night in 30 big minutes as they go down again. his slow start as well as bell’s have them sucking wind and trying to get some magic out of jalen rose. now as far as poor blends, they have one more 6 ft 8 swing guy to try and fit into the mix. should be interesting to see how it works but diaw wasnt in the starting lineup last night and i tend to think that rose’s minutes just might come at diaw’s expense. we’ll see. now where are the crowing suns fans now? eating it i guess, that is crow i presume on the table.

By tb

November 9, 2006 08:59 AM | Link to this

Seems like a pretty interesting time to be a Hawks fan.

Kinda looks like the beginning of something. Some of us have seen it coming. Others have piled on the criticism.

I have to say that after 3 years BK has pulled off a pretty good turn around. Looking forward to watching these guys grow together.

By JohnD

November 9, 2006 09:08 AM | Link to this

Ken,

Do you really think there is a difference in the two political parties? Both simply want power.

tb, the only post I made on morality was to condemn the profanity so prevalent in the NBA. If the league wishes to promote the game to families then the vulgarity should stop. I supported the father who was embarrassed by the behvior of the coaches and team when he sat behind the bench and by drunken obscene fans when he moved. If you support that behavior I suggest you are the one who needs to move or at least reevaluate your life and morals.

Amazing how easily both of you took one sentence from a two paragraph post about the positive side of the Hawks and the season and then went off.

By honest_abe

November 9, 2006 09:26 AM | Link to this

i think johnd usually makes some valid points.. the fact that he doesnt’ feel profane language should be part of the nba experience should be commended. i am actually one of those belligerent drunk types at the games… heh but i should be a little more considerate of the people around me.

we’re 3-1 folks… we usually talk about stupid, trivial stuff because the hawks are struggling.. this is the only time we can actually talk about our team while they are in first… i find it funny, how everyone got annoyed of someone saying he was right all the time… now i scroll up and everybody and their mama is saying they were right on this and right on that..

two new up and coming big men… oberto & zaza who would’ve thunk it

By doc

November 9, 2006 09:36 AM | Link to this

flash, is it my imagination or are the spirit doing fairly well with the thrashers and hawks in first without the boy from boston?

you know what we say about carpetbaggers. careful!

heh heh.

no john d they just want your money in their campaign treasure chests so they can buy what they want for the biggest bidder or lobbyist. that is the power they want and we give them. a friend alluded to the nam war as one for the poor and individual not able to go to college and different from what we are involved in now failed to look at what has really happened. this too is a socioeconomic one without a draft with the entitiled congress persons having essentially no representitives serving in the iraq “peace” effort in the military. that is called entitlement and what they seek and find in the governance of this nation whether democrat or republican. i guess we agree in some form or fashion.

ken love the passion and well said but want to hear and see it from someone who counts that is making the laws. still dont want to go anywhere else.

profanity shows only a lack of vocabulary is what my grandfather used to say nothing more nothing less. be non judgemental and know it doesnt hurt you to hear it only if you for some reason let it and know it is the other guys story not yours.

By Astro Joe

November 9, 2006 09:44 AM | Link to this

Ando, Childress is playing about 36 minutes a game. Yes, that will come down when Marvin is back, but he will still get about 28 minutes. Whether he starts is completely unimportant, he plays the majority of every game and usually is one of 5 players on the floor at the end. I agree that we need an upgrade at PG, but of the guys who would be used in such a trade, Childress is the only one who models what the coaching staff preaches, has demonstrated his ability to be effective as a non-starter and has shown no ego when it comes to individual stats. So why on earth would he qualify as the one to move?

By JohnD

November 9, 2006 09:49 AM | Link to this

For the first fifteen years or so the Hawks were in the league there was free beer in the press room available to all who were granted access. Those with access included just about everyone with a pass of one kind or another to the game. Trouble eventually ensued and the free beer was history.

The NBA knows problems come with the sale of alcohol at the games but the revenue for the teams is significant. That WAS a cup of beer thrown at Ron Artest in Detroit, I believe. Many fans can consume and not create problems for others - and some can’t.

I have no problem with the consumption of alcohol and I do not shy away in terror or disgust at the use of profanity. BUT there is a time and place for everything and a public gathering, with people you do not know, is not the place for drunkenness and profanity.

My last words on the topic, I hope.

By JohnD

November 9, 2006 10:02 AM | Link to this

On the Josh Childress issue. Astro Joe is right on with his assessment. Josh is one player who exemplifies the coaches dream of a player. That may be the reason Mike Woodson has been so hard on him from the sidelines.

The inevitable fact of NBA life is that at some point one or more of what we now consider the “core players” will be traded. I hope Josh Childress is not that player.

By Ken Strickland

November 9, 2006 10:49 AM | Link to this

JOHND, if you believe the two parties are alike, then why single one out or choose either. No two people are alike, and people make up the two parties. There can be a big difference between between being simular and being alike. Anyway, LACSHO, as usual, you, RAY, DOC and certain others have shown yourselves to be the voices of reason.

G-MONEY, I would like to see the Hawks use an old Celtic DEF philosophy when they play teams with superstars. They used it on Wilt, JWest, DThompson, MJordan, etc. They would’t make any extra effort to stop the star player from getting his points. They would make him work harder, carrying the OFF load, take more shots to get his points, and limit his teammates contributions. That DEF philosophy might be the cause of the frustration that prompted Lebron to walkoff the court prematurely.

My take on JSmith’s reluctance to take it to the hoop on a consistent basis is based on 3 things.(1) He has small hands and can’t palm the ball, ala, MMalone& KWillis. If anyone has noticed, when he drives he has to grip the ball with both hands, before he shoots, if the isn’t dunking.(2) He lacks confidence in his inside ballhandling ability, because he dribbles the ball rather high. He seems reluctant to take that extra dribble that would put him in position to power himself over the opponent for a 2 handed power dunk.(3) Offensively, SF usually play on the L side of the formation and PF on the R. Because JSmith is L handed, he is forced to dribble and finish his drive with his off(R)hand, which he doesn’t do well. If he was playing PF, he would be driving to his strong hand(L) and would have less difficulty finishing. Just food for thought.

By doc

November 9, 2006 11:10 AM | Link to this

hey roll tide clyde, check the update on the bradley article in reference to the fire cmr stuff that has been heard by none other than the bradley himself, now coming to the rescue of the beleaguered richt. soooo honorable dont you think.

told you there was a bigger market over there for your t shirts. just maybe you headed over already and are peddling on that site, havent checked. quit when i found out that the likes of honest hung out there.

one dose a day is enough of the ninja assassin.

heh heh

By T-Rex

November 9, 2006 11:59 AM | Link to this

I have to agree with those who said that Joe has always been the player we are seeing. I liked the acquisition from the beginning. Joe Johnson is a team player who only needs good pieces around him. Boris Diaw is in no way a Joe Johnson. Great move ATL. If Marvin comes back and makes up for losing Al’s offense, this team will challenge every night. It doesn’t take much to replace Al’s defense. Plus, our role payers are much better. I’m not sure Speedy is better than Lue. We need a bigger athletic PG. Salim better get it together or he will be gone. I like this team and will not waiver on this statement if it turns for the worse like many others.

By Jameyan

November 9, 2006 12:23 PM | Link to this

I have been here since the blogs first started two seasons ago. The only people who were blogging and talking about this day was Sekou, Astro Joe, Doc, HB Ando, myself, and a few others who just wanted to bash. My oh my have the tides turn in two years. Come on everyone and jump on the bandwagon. For two years I have been preaching about the Hawks at school, at work, and in the hood. Now everyone is gongradulating me and singing my praises. So lets keep it going Hawks on our way to the playoffs.

By newkid

November 9, 2006 12:27 PM | Link to this

Quite an informative article on Gilbert Arenas in yesterday’s Washingtonian. Check it out if you get a chance.

www.washingtonian.com

By The Flash

November 9, 2006 12:28 PM | Link to this

Doc, you are right, but imagine just how good they will be when my boy is back! heh, heh, heh.

For now let me say again, J Chill ain’t going nowhere. He is the kind of guy you need on a team to make it great. Period. Trading him would be a huge mistake, if you are serious about being a real contender. I can’t speak for others, but the boyz here is serious, as in dead, and we need Chill. So, Ando, chill on this idea of trading this guy. If nothing else, he is the creator of space and opportunities, aka from now on “Space.”

What I said above using “SW”, which everybody has long since forgot, was meant to present my take on Josh. He perhaps will be most effective when MW comes back and he and MW are out there together. He will play the 4/3, really hurt people by catching it from the inside out, in the 15 to 17 foot range. From that point, some of the areas that could use strengthening in Josh’s game that Ray ided become less a problem. One, or at most two, dribbles and he is there.

BTW Ray, you be bringing it strong with that breakdown (can’t help myself Ray; I ain’t trying to be something I ain’t; always gravitated towards copying when caught my eye or ear; that being me, how could I not grab it?). No really, Ray, especially with that left side of the court thing. Another factor to possibly put in the equation: taking it all the way from far out has its real risks—it’s a real long way to the floor if you’re 6’8” and people can see you coming a mile away. Guys like LeBron get protected and besides, dude will destroy you you get serious when he’s bringing it; Kobe will avoid you with his acbotics; and AI will just alit like a g-d damn butterfly or just bash the floor and forget it. Smooth you’d have to sweep up. No, his best attacks will come from 15-17 feet.

From distance, the key is to slow when approaching inside the lane, aka Prince, and be prepared fully and completely to pull up for a soft J of floater; if the defense bites, ducking under and past for a finish at the basket. Much safer. Takes a certain sense of timing, poise; Prince has always had it and cultivates it. Not sure it is in Josh’s make up. Think that he really could cultivate it. Love to see McKay work with the forwards on this club. He was a master. He, more than anyone, was responsible for the development of the Indiana kids, aka O’Neal, our boy Al, and Bender. I actually ran into them in Bean town at a big Nike store. Three kids and one wise old man. Believe me, he was their daddy. A class act and a proven teacher. Either him, or dare I say this, and I have before to my boy, in fact, Rick. That’s right, Ray, your eyes heard me right, Rick, as in Barry. Yeah, I know, I am that crazy. Just ask anybody.

By John D.

November 9, 2006 12:28 PM | Link to this

This is my last foray into the political side on this blog.

My comment was that they are alike in that all they want is power. The two may take slightly different roads to achieve the end but once there each will waste your money, ignore the US Constitution and do only what they believe to be politically beneficial to themselves.

Bush and the Republicans spent money like a drunken Democrat while in power. Why? To appeal to those who normally support Democrats. The Democrats helped pass some of the most “consumer unfriendly” legislation in our history. Why? To appeal to those who normally support Republicans.

The greatness of this country does not come from government but from the people, private enterprise, thinkers, achievers, entrepreneurs, and business. The US is the most philanthropic country in the history of the world because the people feel the need to help those less fortunate than themselves. Not because government forces the giving but because for the most part the people love to help. We help our allies and enemies alike when a natural disaster (the Tsunami) or man-made disaster (Chernobyl) occurs.

We are threatened on a daily basis by the followers of a religion that wishes to KILL, not convert, us all and the only means to deal with such is through strength. I personally do not believe the Democrat Party recognizes diplomacy will be a failure in this war. That is the reason I am disappointed in the election. Fight them there or fight them here seems to be our only option.

Perhaps the above is part of why I love basketball and sport in general. There is nothing duplicitous in the games. You step on the court, give your best and win or lose you can be proud. I have been trying to present this view in the blogs on the Hawks. The team has been fun to watch the past two years even though they did not win often. This group gives effort virtually every game and the last Hawk group you could say that about was Doc Rivers, Dominique and their teammates.

At least give Mike Woodson credit for coaching them in a manner that requires best effort and give Billy Knight the credit for bringing in players who respond to the coach, have demonstrated high character on and off the court and are willing to give the effort while they learn. Enjoy the game, the athletes, and the competition and cheer for them to win, but if they lose and give 100% per cent effort, then you can still be proud.

By Ken Strickland

November 9, 2006 12:44 PM | Link to this

Nice recovery JOHND. You put you foot in your mouth, then you serve up a plate of ribs. Your nonpolitical comments were very well thought out and expressed. Can’t complain about that.

By John D.

November 9, 2006 12:52 PM | Link to this

Ken,

Had the position of the parties been reversed the comment would have mentioned Republicans. I am an equal opportunity political basher but a full time supporter of the Hawks.

By doc

November 9, 2006 12:58 PM | Link to this

hey jd sounds as though we now have a party of two. it is a common mans ground swell, grass roots effort, whatever.

By A Thinking Fan

November 9, 2006 01:26 PM | Link to this

Sekou, Astro Joe, Doc, HB Ando, Jameyan and many, many others - OH HAPPY DAY when the Hawks play this way!

Thanks for starting this blog…

By The Flash

November 9, 2006 01:44 PM | Link to this

That was truly ugly, Thinkingman, oh so right on, but ugglyy. First nice, and now poetic. Watch out, my boyz, next we are gonna here about his favorite color.

By honest_abe

November 9, 2006 02:00 PM | Link to this

lol…catchy… now just put it on a t-shirt.

By mykhalc

November 9, 2006 02:09 PM | Link to this

JOE and FLASH, good post on CHILDRESS and dead on-point. he is the kinda player ALL teams need and a coach can rely on. rely on the fact that the coach KNOWS nite-in, nite-out that JC will do whatever is needed for the team to have its’ best chance of winning. CHILLS brings that every nite!!

this is what i THINK i know…BK and WOODSON are loyal type folks. thus, MARVIN will return to the starting line-up. and i THINK he will be given time to bring his game back into shape. i THINK SHELDEN will come off the bench. i THINK BK and WOODSON are committed to both MW and JS to see what they will bring on the court TOGETHER. and i THINK the few pre-season games where they did share the court, there was enough positive play to start the both of them. i’m really curious to see what spots they occupy on the floor!!!

By Clyde

November 9, 2006 02:54 PM | Link to this

I see it Doc. I think he crampin’ my style just a little but its all good. But I wish the dogs would fire cmr. I think he would work well wit John Parker Wilson in Alabama when we fire Shula.

I give credit to Woody for listening to my advise. He has switched up the offense scheme this year and it has worked to perfection. I still don’t see room for Marvin on this squad wit sheldon and JChill playing solid basketball.

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By Astro Joe

November 9, 2006 03:25 PM | Link to this

Flash, you said McKay. Did you mean McKey (Derrick)?

Mykhalc, Speedy’s transition back from his injury may prompt Woody to bring Marvin off the bench for his first 3-5 games from the injury. But I agree that once he has his game legs back, Shelden will very likely move to the bench and Marvin/Smith will get a chance to show their stuff. By then, Speedy will be in better condition too. Supposedly, the vision was Speedy leading the break with Marvin and Smith on opposite sides and JJ spotting up behind the 3-line for the open shot. So I think they will invest time to evaluate the effectiveness of that design.

By Ken Strickland

November 9, 2006 04:48 PM | Link to this

This month will be key to how the rest of the season plays out for the Hawks. We have 3 more games before a very crucial game against Miami on 11/18. After that, we will be tested with back to back games on 11/24&25 against the Raptors and Magic, and 11/28&29 against the Wizards and Bobcats.

After going through Nov, all of the new players should be acclimated to the league and/or the team. Our injured players should be back, in game condition, and ready to contribute. With youth, athleticizm, confidence and chemistry, we should be in the playoff hunt. Only key, prolonged injuries will hold us back. GO HAWKS!!!!!!

By The Flash

November 9, 2006 07:45 PM | Link to this

Him too. Actually, when I ran into them, I brought a Nike hat and asked for their autographs. the others signed freely. McKey said he’d sign if I knew his name. I blanked. Choked. I told him how I had watched him against Bird, how he had all but outplayed the birdman in the playoffs, terrific, you were, I said. He didn’t budge. Then, I said that I knew guys who knew Larry, who was then his coach. Mentioned Joe and Joe’s kid, not my buddy but his younger brother, Derrick relented. My kid wore the hat in the rain.

True story Astro.

By ray

November 9, 2006 08:28 PM | Link to this

Ahh, Clyde. We all know you are the original t-shirt entrepreneur. Nobdody can take that from you!

By Uncle Jr

November 9, 2006 11:08 PM | Link to this

Just watched Rutgers upset Louisville. There’s not reason the Hawks can’t play with the same fire that Rutgers played with. The 3 straight wins have been impressive. I like the defense in the last two games. But we need to cut down on turnovers and we are still getting outrebounded.

By HB Ando

November 10, 2006 12:44 AM | Link to this

Guys, my opinion on the fate of Childress lies completely with whatever happens to his minutes when Marvin is back. I hear suggestions that he’ll still find 28. If he does, then he optimizes his value to this squad. But if he doesn’t, then his value is greater in moving him to a team that will use him for those type of legitimate minutes. This opinion is black or white, but, rather, about how the coaching staff chooses to utilize his talents. My point is that if he becomes a 15-18 minute player, in the revised, post-return of Marvin rotation, then his contributions may be covered by Bozeman, who brings a similar style of productivity. He’s shown what he can do with major minutes. But he remains behind Joe, Josh and Marvin, in the 2-3 pecking order. And, in the end, his value may be better optimized as trade currency, than as a 15 minute per night backup. This is in no way a knock on him. In fact, I have, in the past, knocked Billy’s choice to pass on Deng and Igoudala, to choose Childress. And though they all stand in similar regard, statistically, I like the other two players, long-term, just as I did the night Billy made the decision. It’s a subjective opinion, so arguing about it is pointless

Doc, I haven’t strayed from my year-long desire to have seen us draft Aldridge. He’s just returning from a significant shoulder injury. The fact that I’m not making issue of it is because he was gone when we chose. He still would have been my pick if he was on the board. So it’s not as if I’ve conveniently shifted my position. I had Roy well ahead of Shelden on my board. When he fell to us, he should have been the pick. That being said, I’ll stick to my opinion that if both of them, Roy and Aldridge, had been on the board when we picked, I still would have gone with Aldridge. So please don’t miscontrue my comments that Roy was the choice over Shelden, as shifting my ranking of Aldridge over both, long-term.

By Native Son

November 11, 2006 09:42 AM | Link to this

I’m a diehard.Born and raised right here. I take a lot of heat for talking up the Hawks, but for me, that’s all there is. After this team could’nt get past the 2cd round in the M.J. era, we took on the task of re-building,made mistakes, suffered, hired B.Knight, blew it up again,focused on a vision, and what you see here now folks,is simply Billy Knight, “plug & play’.The man is due some props for getting all these “Basketball Players”.Shocking the League and making all the pundits liars. The bandwagon leaves at 6:00 pm at the Five Points Station.LOL!!! Shalom.